Despite being miles apart, the trademark banter between the two TNT hosts was in full effect. While Shaquille O’Neal was in the commentary booth for a unique foray into calling the games, Charles Barkley was already apprehensive about sending the big man to the booth. However, the Los Angeles Lakers legend would repay the favor in kind. Rather than sit quietly, Shaq’s first half calling an NBA game was an out-and-out riot.

Whether it was dissing the NBA referees or calling out Victor Wembanyama, the Big Aristotle was on fire. But, the funniest moment, like always, was Shaq’s dig at the Chuckster. Due to his first commentary matchup taking place between the Miami Heat and Milwaukee Bucks, he was bound to receive some special treatment.

After all, the former MVP was a key reason for Miami winning its first championship in 2006. Speaking on the vaunted Heat Culture, O’Neal described the entire experience in 5 words. “Discipline, motivation, and never giving up.” 

His own Finals against the Dallas Mavericks was a fine example of those creeds. “You remember the Finals against the great Dirk Nowitzki? We were down 0-2. Lord knows I’m a terrible pick-and-roll defender. We know that. But, guess what? We were never going to give up.”

Watch This Story: Father Of 6, Shaquille O’Neal Finds Himself Irked By One Child On Luxurious Bahamas Getaway

But, before he went into a complimenting spree about the Heat, the team had a special jersey gift for him. However, that brought its own set of jokes and jabs. This time, by co-commentator on the TNT broadcast – Reggie Miller.

“I know what you’re gonna ask me. Yes, I can fit it. Yes, I can still fit it. This is Shaq, not Charles Barkley. I look good.” 

Despite sitting far away on a different desk, the bond between the two remains unchanged. But, with a legend in attendance, can Miami pull out a win against their previously coveted Damian Lillard and the Milwaukee Bucks?

Jimmy’s absence, not the presence of Shaquille O’Neal, proves to be the difference-maker

Without their superstar and closer Jimmy Butler, the Miami Heat were unable to rally past a potent Bucks attack. With each passing week, their chemistry and play continue to improve. As a result, finding a point of weakness is becoming increasingly frustrating for opponents.

Moreover, a rejuvenated Khris Middleton finally showed his All-Star form that catapulted the Bucks to their 2021 NBA Championship. In the waning moments of this close encounter, it was his decision-making that proved to be the difference. Whether scoring or passing, Middleton was the ultimate reason that the Milwaukee Bucks overcame the Heat.

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“Never Done That Before”: Charles Barkley’s Analysis on Bucks’ Superstar Duo Could Worry Milwaukee Fans

Without Butler, Miami could not survive the Milwaukee onslaught. After some thinly-veiled shots from both parties, the next NBA on TNT episode promises to be a fiery affair.