Shaquille O’Neal doesn’t like gifts! Superman turned 53 this year. And just two days later, Kenny Smith will ring in his 60th year, officially joining Ernie Johnson and Charles Barkley. This certainly calls for a huge celebration. However, during Tuesday’s TNT broadcast, Shaq made it clear that he is against any such festivities. So, it was up to TNT host Ernie Johnson to make the day special. From bringing in Adele 2.0 to a smart puppy, this came close to a perfect birthday party!

In the latest segment, Johnson alluded to the fact that he was well aware of Shaq’s stance on birthday gifts. But the crew had prepared something anyway. Soon, the backboard behind them played O’Neal’s own commercial for the “Shaq-in-the-Box” personalized birthday song. So, it was Shaq wishing himself a happy birthday. The 4X NBA champ was surprised but didn’t appear too pleased. “Oh! you hit me with my own commercial,” Shaq said.

To top it off, Chuck presented the best and most heartfelt birthday gift for Shaq. He sang the birthday song for the Lakers legend. And as you all might know, the Phoenix Suns legend has some real vocal prowess (seemingly for the worst). As Johnson hilariously teased him, Barkley defended himself saying, “Adele was holding me back. Y’all couldn’t hear me because she was over there making that noise.” 

However, he concluded with wishing both his colleagues. “Happy birthday, big fella. Happy birthday, Kenny,” he said. And on March 8, we celebrate Kenny “The Jet” Smith’s birthday. “On Saturday, this man joins the ranks of the 60 club,” Johnson announced. The 2x NBA champ was initially unmotivated after watching O’Neal’s birthday celebration. Even Barkley wasn’t impressed with the birthday wish video. “I’m with Kenny on this one. Just when you thought TNT couldn’t get any cheaper, y’all got to give these guys gifts Ernie!” Chuck asked.

However, the crew had something even more special prepared for Smith. Just then, the crew walked in with animal actor Michaela and a cart carrying birthday cakes for both Shaq and Smith. But the cart was being pulled by a bulldog puppy named Tate. The real mastermind behind the stunt was Michaela, who skillfully lured the puppy with food. And this might just be the perfect gift. Do you know why?

Kenny Smith races alongside Bulldog puppy 

Smith immediately recognized the puppy. They had never met before, but the 2x NBA champ’s legs are often compared to little bulldog puppies, thin in proportion to their bulky bodies, with adorable wrinkles and a squishy face. “Tate’s knees look like my knees,” Smith said. “Kenny on social has always likened to a dog very similar to this so they may be related,” Johnson clarified.

Netizens frequently made this comparison, so it was only fitting that the two participated in a race now that the puppy was here. With Michaela’s help, they raced toward the backboard. As Smith placed his hands on it, Michaela guided the puppy to stand on its hind legs, propping its front paws against the screen so Tate could enjoy his treat while showing off its stunt. 

The cakes were just as special. While the Los Angeles Lakers legend’s featured the Superman emblem, Smith’s showcased the North Carolina Tar Heels logo. It’s safe to say the celebration was just perfect! Even Shaq who doesn’t like gifts might have also liked it.