Shaquille O’Neal once again proved why he’s the king of courtside comedy. During Tuesday night’s broadcast of Inside the NBA, the larger-than-life former Lakers star delivered a laugh-out-loud joke that left his colleagues in stitches, sparking viral buzz across social media.
The comedic moment unfolded during a lighthearted exchange before the highly anticipated Lakers-Suns game. O’Neal, sitting at the far-right of the panel alongside Ernie Johnson, Jalen Rose, and longtime frenemy Charles Barkley, couldn’t resist taking a playful jab at Barkley after a quip about low-fat milk.
Shaq vs. Chuck: The Comedy Rivalry Continues
It all started innocently enough, with O’Neal reminiscing about Bol Bol, a Phoenix Suns player. The conversation then pivoted to milk, of all things, with Jalen Rose teasing Shaq about his dairy preferences.
“Low-fat milk!” Shaq shot back with his trademark grin.
Never one to miss an opportunity, Barkley jumped in with a sly remark: “You already got the fat cut covered.”
The timing was perfect for O’Neal’s sharp comeback. Without missing a beat, he cracked: “Don’t make me put you on Ozempic, Chuck!”, referencing the popular weight-loss drug that has become a pop culture talking point.
A Laugh Heard Around the NBA
The comment sent the TNT crew—and viewers—into fits of laughter. Social media quickly lit up with fans praising Shaq’s humor and the chemistry between the Inside the NBA panelists, who are renowned for their playful banter.
This isn’t the first time Shaq and Barkley have traded barbs on-air. Their comedic rivalry has become a staple of the show, keeping fans entertained as much off the court as on it.
Why Shaq’s Joke Landed So Well
O’Neal’s knack for blending current cultural references with his natural comedic timing continues to make him a standout personality in sports broadcasting. Ozempic, often discussed for its association with weight loss, added a layer of relatability and modern relevance to his playful jab.
Whether he’s dunking on opponents or roasting his colleagues, Shaq knows how to steal the show—and this latest exchange proves he’s as sharp as ever.