Shaquille O’Neal and Charles Barkley have their focus shifted to a player who is not widely recognized by the media but has won the respect of these basketball icons. So who is the player Shaq and Barkley are talking about?

Oklahoma City Thunder’s key player

Charles Barkley and Shaq discussed the 2023–24 NBA Most Improved Player Award finalists in a recent “NBA on TNT” episode. But what drew viewers’ attention was a specific comment made by Shaq. In a talk about the Oklahoma City Thunder, Shaq expressed his respect for Jalen Williams, a player who has received minimal coverage from the mainstream media. Shaq and Charles Barkley have acknowledged his contributions to the court.

So the 52-year-old icon, Shaquille O’Neal, shared his thoughts on the episode, “Inside the NBA Reacts To Thunder Holding Off Pelicans in Dramatic Game 1 | NBA on TNT”. O’Neal stated, “Oh he’s tough…that’s the one who can really stud.” Ernie Johnson continued, “That’s Jalen Williams with an e.” 

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Barkley emphasized Williams’ contributions to the Oklahoma City Thunder and his potential to have a big impact on the league. When Ernie Johnson relayed the order for the award finalists beginning with “Coby White second, just behind Jalen Williams of the Oklahoma City Thunder,” Barkley remarked, “Oh Jalen Williams he’s balling man, good call”. Shaquille O’Neal agreed with Barkley, praising Williams’ drive on the basketball court. Despite their hilarious banter, they do seriously agree with each other on rare occasions.

Shaq and Charles Barkley’s joyful conversation

Is there anything more enjoyable than watching Charles Barkley and Shaquille O’Neal joke around while the TNT crew covers the NBA? This time, it was the Oklahoma City Thunder (57-15), the top-seeded team in the Western Conference Playoffs, facing the New Orleans Pelicans (49-33) on Sunday night. The first half finished in a 43-43 tie after an energetic battle. The Pelicans eventually lost 92-94 to the OKC Thunder.

After halftime, Ernie Johnson returned to present the “NBA on TNT” with Kenny “The Jet” Smith, Barkley, and O’Neal. And the show rapidly went from basketball discussion to playful punches being tossed amongst the four left and right, as is common. A seemingly spontaneous argument between Barkley and O’Neal regarding Charles Barkley’s weight resulted in an all-time quote from Barkley. “I’m lighter than you,” bragged O’Neal. Barkley denied this, simply stating, “You not at all, fata**.” Finally, after continuing to make fun of Shaquille O’Neal’s weight during the Pelicans-Thunder halftime show on TNT, Charles Barkley eventually let up.