When it comes to chemistry in the sports media industry, few can match the dynamic duo of Shaquille O’Neal and Charles Barkley. Their banter and comedic exchanges on TNTs Inside the NBA have become legendary, entertaining basketball fans for years. But what many fans might not know is that their hilarious bromance may have been sparked by a phone call from Barkley’s mom.
In a surprising revelation after Game 2 of the NBA Finals, O’Neal shared a heartwarming story about the bond between their families. It turns out that Barkley’s mom and O’Neal’s mom had “the sweetest friendship” that went unnoticed by the two basketball stars. The revelation came when O’Neal was about to confront Barkley, whom he admitted to hating at the time.
Chuck and @SHAQ have a special bond ❤️
🎥 @NBATV pic.twitter.com/MqF6DPsqfv
— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) June 4, 2023
“We were getting ready to get into a fight, and before I could get to the locker room and put my clothes on to go down and see him, I get a call from his mother… who said, ‘Don’t you hit my boy!’ And I was like, ‘Who is this?'” O’Neal recalled.
The unexpected phone call from Barkley’s mom stopped O’Neal in his tracks. Little did he know that this moment would be the turning point in their relationship. From that day forward, the two basketball icons began to bond and build a unique friendship that has stood the test of time.
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O’Neal went on to explain why their basketball experiences contribute to the success of Inside the NBA. He described Barkley as “the older brother I never had,” highlighting the deep connection and respect they have for each other. Their contrasting personalities and witty remarks create a comedic chemistry that keeps fans coming back for more.
So, the next time you tune in to watch Inside the NBA, remember the unlikely origins of Shaq and Chuck’s hilarious bromance. Behind their witty remarks and playful banter lies a bond forged by friendship, basketball, and the sweet intervention of Barkley’s mom.
