Backing Shaquille O’Neal’s Demand, Ex-ESPN Analyst Voices His Disdain for Last 2-Min Report

Shaquille O’Neal is done with the NBA Last Two Minute Report. As if the drama in the Philadelphia 76ers’ Game 2 wasn’t enough, it was perfectly capped off with even more controversy due to the officiating. After the report confirmed multiple missed calls against the Sixers, the Lakers legend expressed his frustration with the damage caused to the team. Agreeing with O’Neal, former ESPN analyst Mark Jackson also shared his opinion on the matter. 

Speaking of the officiating in the playoffs, Jackson pointed out two important issues. Highlighting the 76ers game’s officiating as the second issue, he said, “What I don’t need and I’m tired of and probably one of the reasons I’m not calling games anymore the last two-minute report.”

He further added, “I don’t need a Philadelphia Knicks series that you come out and say three or four mistakes were made by referees wrong calls fouls not called timeouts not called…that’s absolutely inexcusable because now you have a team down 2-0 instead of 1-1 going back home it’s a game changer and it’s unacceptable.”

Joel Embiid and 76ers head coach Nick Nurse voiced their issues with officiating during the post-game conference. The 7x NBA All-Star even called the officiating as “f*****g unacceptable.” There were simply too many mistakes which ultimately led the Knicks to get a win and hold a 2-0 over the 76ers in the series. And by the time it was confirmed, it was frustratingly too late for the 76ers. 

Shaquille O’Neal called out the NBA officials 

Embiid further claimed how Philadelphia 76ers star Maxey was fouled twice. The first was when Jalen Brunson of the New York Knicks grabbed Maxey’s jersey which stopped him from getting the inbounds pass. The second was when Josh Hart’s lower-body contact with Maxey caused him to lose his balance. Both were ignored. Embiid also claimed that his teammates and head coach Nick Nurse even tried to bring attention to it but got ignored by the officials. It even sparked a talk on the team to file a complaint to the league.

And as O’Neal believes the damage is already caused and cannot be reversed, taking to his Instagram handle, he said, “This is why people think the NBA game is rigged.” Shaq demanded: “The next day, the NBA Last 2-Minute report, yes he was fouled! The ref didn’t call it. My question is, you admit it now, but what the f**k does that do for Philadelphia? Get rid of the Last 2-Minute report. You’re a referee. Pay attention!” With that, we are back again at the Philadelphia 76ers being in a tight position. A win in Game 3 could change for the team. What is your take on this? Let us know in the comments section below.