On a recent broadcast of Inside the NBA on TNT, viewers witnessed yet another hilarious Christmas-themed prank featuring the one and only Shaquille O’Neal. During a festive segment, Kenny Smith executed a familiar prank, pushing the 7-foot-1 NBA legend into a large Christmas tree on the set. Despite being an ongoing gag, the spectacle never fails to entertain.
The buildup to the comedic moment began as the panel engaged in playful banter about holiday traditions. ‘The Jet’ cleverly lured Shaquille O’Neal toward the Christmas tree under the pretense of retrieving a gift. The prank mirrored a similar incident from the 2022 holiday season, where Smith successfully toppled Shaq in the same manner.
This year’s iteration saw The Big Diesel once again caught off guard, crashing into the tree with only his feet sticking out. Despite his massive stature, the fall was as comical as ever, with co-hosts Charles Barkley and Adam Lefkoe stepping in to “rescue” him from the festive foliage in the absence of Ernie Johnson.
KENNY PUT SHAQ IN THE CHRISTMAS TREE AGAIN 🤣🎄 pic.twitter.com/n1iD0sNmKf
— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) December 20, 2024
Back in 2022, Kenny Smith originated the prank when he tricked Shaquille O’Neal into following him to the Christmas Tree before giving him slightly more than a love tap to send him toppling into the festive spread. Unfortunately, the ‘Diesel’ still hasn’t learnt his lesson when it comes to trusting ‘The Jet’s’ festive invites.
Charles Barkley reveals Christmas wishlist from Shaquille O’Neal
The holiday spirit extended beyond Big Shaq toppling down the Christmas tree. The TNT panel soon turned their attention to Christmas gifting traditions with Charles Barkley publicly announcing his wishlist for Shaquille O’Neal. Known as ‘Shaq-a-Claus’ for his charitable efforts with children, Shaq’s gift-giving habits toward his co-hosts were in the spotlight.
Kenny Smith was the first to point out the disparity in Shaq’s generosity. While O’Neal is renowned for sending thoughtful gifts to kids in need across the U.S., his gifts to colleagues are often items he endorses or receives for free.
You do them so much differently than you do us. You give them real gifts. You give us stuff with your face on it!
Kenny Smith teased Shaquille O’Neal
The Fellas REALLY got into the Christmas spirit with this one 😂 pic.twitter.com/7FfaRRgunp
— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) December 20, 2024
The Chuckster wasn’t one to stand back. He added to the ribbing, claiming that Shaq’s presents often include products from his business ventures, such as Icy Hot or Gold Bond. When pressed on what he would like for Christmas from Shaq, Barkley declared, “Cash is always king.”
Shaquille O’Neal and Charles Barkley are never ones to disappoint when it comes to the comedic spirit of the show. One must be thankful that the Inside Crew isn’t going away anytime soon.
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