“They Were Married for 50 Years”: Charles Barkley and Shaquille O’Neal Mourn Heartbreaking Loss on Live TV

The latest episode of ‘Inside the NBA’ started on a mournful note as news of Ernie Johnson’s mother’s passing broke. The NBA on TNT family expressed their condolences while Johnson’s children spoke about their grandmother. As his children spoke about how lucky they were to be blessed with Lois Marjorie Johnson, they stated that the world witnessed her laugh and kindness through Ernie.

Following this, Ernie’s co-hosts and brothers, Shaquille O’Neal, Charles Barkley, and Kenny Smith spoke about Lois Marjorie. Each had beautiful messages that left many teary-eyed.

Charles Barkley and Kenny Smith’s circle of life

For Charles Barkley, being around the Johnson family was an eye-opener. Barkley, who was brought up by his mother and grandmother, found it amazing to watch Ernie’s parents work together and run the family. Barkley said, “Wow, that’s how a mom and dad supposed to be”. 

He commented on how Ernie’s parents stood by their vows and stayed married for years together. He said, “They were married for 50 years”. Barkley stated that his co-host Kenny Smith’s parents had the same influence on him. He said, “I treasure watching Ernie with his mom and dad. I treasure watching Kenny with his mom and dad.”

He added that despite it being a day of sadness, he treasures the impact they had on him. Kenny Smith, who lost his mother a few years ago, was touched by Charles Barkley’s words about his parents. He called it the best compliment he has ever received.

He then spoke about the bond of brotherhood that the four of them have developed over the years. While expressing his deepest condolences, he mentioned that this brotherhood goes through the “circle of life” together. By this, he means that they go through the highs and lows of life together. 

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Smith said, “Ernie knows when he comes back, he leans on us and we are going to be here for him.” He added that the bond they have created is “bigger than basketball, bigger than the show, and bigger than any network”

Shaquille O’Neal on Lois Johnson

On the other hand, Shaq first gave his condolences to the Johnson family. While stating that Lois Marjorie “lived a great life”, he mentioned that she raised a wonderful human being in Ernie.

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Furthermore, he praised Ernie for his focus and commitment to his job. He mentioned that a couple of days ago when Ernie found out that his mother was ill, he focused on finishing up the shoot. Following this, he headed to meet his mother. After this, the entire NBA on TNT family promised to celebrate Lois every day.