Overview
- Shaquille O’Neal abruptly left a live Inside the NBA broadcast for a bathroom break, prompting jokes from co-hosts Kenny Smith, Charles Barkley, and Ernie Johnson.
- The unscripted moment, shared widely on social media by NBA on TNT, has drawn significant online engagement, including a cheeky comment from O’Neal’s son, Shaqir.
- O’Neal apologized upon his return, attributing the incident to drinking too much water and playfully blaming Barkley for delaying a commercial break.
- Fans have celebrated the camaraderie and humor of the Emmy-winning show, which is in its final season on TNT before transitioning to ESPN and ABC for the 2025–26 season.
- The viral moment underscores the enduring appeal of Inside the NBA’s blend of analysis and humor, even as it prepares to join a new network.