NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal was noticeably absent from his usual spot as co-anchor on TNT’s Inside the NBA during the semifinals.
Fans were left wondering if the basketball icon was still part of the panel alongside Kenny Smith, Ernie Johnson, and Charles Barkley.
The absence of Shaq, who retired from basketball and transitioned into a sports analyst role, was first noticed on May 19, 2024. Taking his place was fellow NBA legend Vince Carter during the coverage of the Nuggets-Timberwolves matchup. Despite speculations and inquiries from viewers, Shaquille O’Neal did not provide a reason for his sudden absence, and TNT has remained silent on the matter.
Since joining TNT as a sports analyst in 2011, Shaquille O’Neal has become a staple on the network’s NBA coverage. He signed a multi-year deal with TNT, expressing his desire to make the show even more entertaining than it already was. With his charismatic personality and basketball expertise, Shaq has become a fan favorite on Inside the NBA.
Before his successful career as a sports analyst, Shaquille O’Neal had an illustrious professional basketball career. He was the first overall pick in the 1992 NBA draft by the Orlando Magic and went on to win Rookie of the Year the following year. Teaming up with Kobe Bryant and Phil Jackson on the Los Angeles Lakers, Shaq won three consecutive NBA championships from 2000 to 2002.
Throughout his career, Shaquille O’Neal also played for the Miami Heat, Phoenix Suns, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Boston Celtics before retiring in 2011. His impact on the court has solidified his status as one of the greatest players in NBA history.
