The Inside the NBA crew has always felt more like a tight-knit family than just coworkers. And now that family is grieving the loss of one of their own. Kevin Thomas, a longtime stagehand for the show, passed away at 70, leaving behind a legacy that stretched far beyond his behind-the-scenes role. For over 30 years, Kevin Thomas was the unseen heartbeat of the program. Just as essential as the stars in front of the camera. Whether it was setting up iconic skits or helping pull off the show’s wildest moments, his contributions were irreplaceable.

During a heartfelt tribute on air, the entire crew, Ernie Johnson, Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith, and Shaquille O’Neal, shared their memories, proving just how deeply he impacted everyone involved. Shaquille O’Neal, in particular, delivered a moving farewell that captured Kevin Thomas’s spirit perfectly. He said, “Kevin was a great man. Everybody behind was great. This is my first job and, seeing these people for the last few years.” All praises coming from the Big Diesel are big. But it didn’t stop there!

He continued, “But Kevin, as well as Eric, all the funniest skits that we have, I would come in and say, I need this. And somehow they would get it done. I need a bird. And they’d come get a bird. I need wigs. They’d come back with a box of wigs.” As good as one could be, Kevin was truly a guy Shaq would wish to be around forever. In fun, in emergencies, all he had to do was ask for it. “So, when they told me the other day, I heard it, but I didn’t want to hear it. And I said, who? And they said, Kevin. My Kevin? So condolences goes out to him and his family. And Kevin probably could have pointed to 20 ideas. Would definitely be missed. We’re all hurting today. I pray for his family.”

Shaq’s words, raw and unfiltered, summed up what made Thomas so special. It was his ability to turn even the most ridiculous requests into magic, all while staying humble and beloved by everyone around him. But he didn’t just build a family amongst the crew members. On the other end of the screen, even the viewers were moved.

A glimpse of overflowing love and support from the mourning fans

Not just the crew members mourned the passing of Kevin Thomas, but also the loyal fans of Inside the NBA joined in grieving on social media, remembering his funny and engaging contributions to the show’s beloved skits. His behind-the-scenes work and on-camera moments left a lasting mark, making him an unsung hero of the iconic program.

Fans expressed their sorrow, with one writing, “Inside has demonstrated ability to connect with people beyond basketball-on a human level-from day one. The Inside family stands alone from all the rest. Like Mr. Thomas-the magic will be missed. ❤️🙏” The comment speaks to how the show’s authenticity made it feel less like a broadcast and more like a gathering of friends, with Thomas as part of that bond. Another person added, “Kevin Thomas’s legacy lives in every soul he touched on and off camera-this tribute echoes with the warmth he gave so freely.” These messages reflect how deeply he resonated with viewers, not just as an entertainer but as a part of the show’s heart.

Memories of his humor and creativity were also shared, with one fan recalling, “Was sad to hear that Kevin Thomas aka the dude that created one of my favorite moments on Inside the NBA when he got revenge on Shaq and put him in the Camel Clutch, has passed. It’s really guys like Kevin that helped make that one of the great sports shows of all time. RIP 🙏🏾🙏🏾.” This reflected that legendary bit perfectly captured the show’s rare blend of humor and heart that Thomas helped cultivate. Others pointed to specific moments, like “I’ll always remember Kevin from Kenny’s jersey retirement with the cigarette rip 🙏,” highlighting how his small but memorable contributions became iconic.

As tributes poured in, many connected his passing to the show’s uncertain future, with one fan noting, “Damn, I remember this guy… this is so sad considering they are ending this season with TNT.. RIP Kevin.” His passing, for some people, makes this final chapter feel even more like the end of an era. Another loyal fan simply stated, “Very authentic and thoughtful. Going to seriously miss this show,” expressing the show’s value in fans’ lives. While a person’s tribute read, “He will be greatly missed, leaving a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of working with him. Rest in peace.” His dedication and spirit were surely woven into the fabric of the show, touching everyone from colleagues to viewers.

This was just a small glimpse of the love that poured in. Both Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) saw a rush of love. With the end of Inside the NBA on TNT looming, Kevin Thomas’s absence adds another layer of emotion for fans who cherished the show’s unique blend of comedy, camaraderie, and basketball.