It was March when TNT’s beloved analyst Shaquille O’Neal had to take a leave. The four-time NBA champion underwent hip replacement surgery. Most would tread with caution after such a procedure, but not the Big Diesel. Only a week later, he was in the gym, getting back into his busy lifestyle. And the action hasn’t stopped. Shaq is making full use of his newly enforced hip. Taking it a step further, he tried to bait co-analyst Kenny Smith into the popular race to the backboard. However, not only did the entire studio know he won’t do it, but Charles Barkley seems to have some money on the line in regard to Shaq’s health.

The revelation came during halftime of the Minnesota Timberwolves–Denver Nuggets first-round matchup and had Ernie Johnson rethinking ethics.

Charles Barkley has a bet on Shaquille O’Neal blowing out his hip

The crew was speaking about the playoff battle when suddenly Shaq started acting out of place. The 2000 MVP began leaning on his chair and caught the attention of everyone. When asked what he was doing, his answer was “I’m trying to entice him to run to the board”. Well aware of the Big Diesel‘s recent hip surgery, his co-hosts knew he wouldn’t risk it all for a race.

But as you can guess, that wasn’t all that happened. The ‘Jet‘ revealed they have an “over or under” when it comes to Shaq. You might be wondering, what’s the bet over? Well, Charles Barkley answered it almost instantly. He said the bet is over “When you going to blow out your new hip.”

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As the mediator, Johnson quickly shut down the bet and asked the two to not wish such things on the gentle giant. However, it seems Shaquille O’Neal himself is the reason they came up with the notorious deal. According to Kenny Smith, just weeks after surgery, the Los Angeles Lakers great is already “diving on couches“.

Shaq’s response was a simple guilty smile, as he knew he had been caught out. Regardless, since the return of DJ Diesel, Inside the NBA has got its mojo back. The comedic dynamic between the crew is incomplete without full attendance. In the case of Barkley, he doesn’t have anyone to take a fight against, or even shoot digs at any chance possible.

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Shaquille O’Neal seems to have adjusted well post-surgery, and most fans are hoping for nothing but the best for the NBA legend.