The NBA clearly wanted its All-Star Game to feel more intense, with players actually taking it seriously this year. But here’s the thing — in the middle of the final All-Star game at the Warriors’ Chase Center, the league paused for 18 minutes to honor TNT’s The Inside Crew hosts Ernie Johnson, Shaquille O’Neal, Kenny Smith and Charles Barkley. Talk about taking the air out of the moment!

The tribute was full of surprises. Each crew member received three gifts: a signed jersey, an All-Star ring, and some fishing gear—an obvious shoutout to their hilarious “Gone Fishin’” segment, where they poke fun at the teams eliminated from the playoffs. Afterward, the four legends shared their thoughts on the moment.

“Legends that have made the game of basketball nothing short of amazing. And of course, I’m talking about Ernie. I’m talking about Chuck. I’m talking about King. I’m talking about. Three guys. That I’ve had the liberty of sitting next to. That I’ve had delivered here.” announced Kevin Hart as they were presented signed jerseys and rings.

To which Shaq replied, “I know, we’re leaving, but I only have one question, why are you not entertained? And saying where you got entertained?”. Even when the moment was about him and the TNT crew, Big Diesel’s first priority was crowd’s entertainment. The 2025 All-Star Weekend was the final time we saw the original ‘Inside the NBA’ crew on TNT. After the NBA new deal with Amazon, TNT is no longer a broadcaster of the NBA. Which means no more Shaqtin’ a fool.

It’s a bittersweet end, and fans are already feeling the impact of losing such an iconic team. The energy they brought was unmatched, and it’s going to be tough to replace.

Ernie thanked the fans in his address, “It’s been a 40-year relationship, Turner Broadcasting, TBS, TNT, and the NBA. And it’s been special every second along the way. Because of you, the fans. Dear, the players. The fact that we get to do this, it’s a get-to job, not a got-to job, and it’s been our pleasure every second. Thank you very much.”. Johnson’s voice and warmth. The crew’s chemistry, especially Ernie’s quick wit and calming presence, made watching the show feel like hanging out with old friends.

Kenny made sure to show his appreciation for the NBA players they get to cover, while Barkley took a moment to thank both the players and the fans. It almost felt like Chuck was going to cry. It’s always cool to see how much love they have for the game and the people involved.

Now, here’s where things got a little murky. Hart’s comments gave the impression that “Inside the NBA” was wrapping up for good, but luckily, Ernie and Shaq cleared things up. While the show is indeed shifting to ESPN, it’s not really saying goodbye. Well after the tribute the game resumed and Shaq got a reason to be happy.

Shaquille O’ Neal’s team wins the All-Star mini tournament

Stephen Curry and Jayson Tatum combined for 27 points as Team Shaq ran away with the win in the revamped NBA All-Star Game. Playing on his home floor at Chase Center, Curry drained deep threes like it was just another night in the Bay, helping secure a 41-25 victory over Team Chuck.

Tatum dropped 15 points, joining a loaded lineup with Kevin Durant, Damian Lillard, and James Harden. The squad barely missed a beat, even after LeBron James pulled out last-minute due to a foot and ankle issue. On the other side, Nikola Jokic, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Donovan Mitchell couldn’t keep pace. Curry walked away with his second All-Star MVP, adding another trophy to his collection.

The NBA switched things up this year, scrapping the usual East vs. West format for a four-team tournament. First to 40 points won each game, with Shaquille O’Neal, Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith, and Candace Parker coaching.

Not everyone loved the change. Draymond Green, calling the game on TV, didn’t hold back. “This sucks. It ain’t basketball,” he said. But Damian Lillard had a different take, saying it felt more competitive than previous years.

Love it or hate it, the NBA is clearly experimenting. Whether this format sticks or fades like a bad jump shot, only time will tell.