The fan favorite ‘Inside the NBA’ got a lifeline, thanks to a partnership between TNT and ESPN. Today’s show was another example of how it is not only about sports analysis but also about ‘entertainment’. Usually, Charles Barkley is the biggest instigator of Shaquille O’Neal. This time too he started one such argument, but Kenny The Jet Smith raised it to another level.

After all, the 2x NBA Champion missed last week’s show, and not for the reason Chuck previously reported. The 76ers legend stated, “Got fired! Got fired, hopefully.” But the anchor of the show, Ernie Johnson, negated any such comments.

“He’s just off,” EJ added more hints so that fans don’t panic. “The week of Thanksgiving, Kenny off. I don’t know, you guys tie the loose ends with us.” So, Kenny Smith apparently was spending his off with his family. With a rejuvenated energy, he did stir the pot on Shaquille O’Neal.

First, it was Barkley who fired an unwarranted jab at Shaq. “You could dunk five years ago.” But for The Big Aristotle, jealousy always motivates him, so he replies, “I can dunk right now.” Smith started his act of instigation, “You can’t dunk right now,” and even wagered against the Laker’s legend. O’Neal’s co-analyst even questioned the different body he would injure if he tried such a stunt, giant’s hamstring, ACL, back, etc.

“Give him a ball. Talk your talk.” Kenny Smith continued gaslighting the 4x NBA Champion. Eventually, Shaquille O’Neal demanded a ball from the staff; Even the suit jacket was off like a figurative representation of all gloves were off. And it took him just two steps because let’s not forget he is still a 7 foot 1 phenom.

If you too bet against Shaq, that was a mistake. And even Kenny Smith realized that. From saying, “He can only dunk donuts and coffee now” to giving him a standing ovation after the successful dunk. Fans knew it was a mistake from the North Carolina Alum to doubt O’Neal.

Fans dunk on Kenny Smith for his take on the Lakers legend

Betting against a guy who officially has 2,696 dunks in his career was not just a mistake but a costly error. One more thing to note is that the official counting of dunk records started in 1996, so unofficially, he might be the leader. And it’s not the first time Kenny Smith has lost to Shaquille O’Neal. Once, losing out a race to Shaq while the former Center was wearing slippers.

“Kenny cant even run why he talkin trash for.” Another one questioned The Jet’s knees, after all, he has lost time and time again to the 4x NBA Champion. “You know Kenny knees touching.” Most importantly, after the successful dunk, the LSU alum did not trash-talk to any of his co-analysts. Only doing his celebratory taunt, “Are you not entertained?”

And the fans felt a missed opportunity for Shaq to take a shot at Kenny Smith. “Shaq should’ve said something about Kenny’s knees.” Plus, another netizen asked Charles Barkley and Smith to repeat the challenge. But did not give Chuckster any benefit of the doubt. 

“Shaq should have said, “Ok Charles, your turn.” Kenny probably would have a better chance. Shaq will probably be able to dunk when he’s 80. His knees would probably explode on the landing though.”

Even though he is 52 years old, Shaquille O’Neal is still a giant. A fan made sure to remind Kenny Smith to remember that and not challenge for any more dunk contests. “Kenny is like you can’t dunk right now 😂😂 you realize Shaq is 7 feet right like he can dunk till he’s 100 lol.” After two years removed from his hip replacement procedure, Shaq proved Kenny Smith wrong, leaving fans ecstatic.