Shaquille O’Neal Defies Charles Barkley, Favors Lakers’ “Genius” Move Despite Displeasure Towards Adam Silver’s Master Stroke

Any new change is divisive. Especially in the world of sports. So, when the In Season Tournament first came into existence, it had a lot of doubters. But through interest from the players and intense basketball on display, everyone slowly became a fan. However, the value of the victory remains up for debate. While his TNT co-host is completely against the idea, Shaquille O’Neal has a different mindset about Adam Silver’s creation.

Making an appearance on the Rich Eisen show, O’Neal wasn’t going to mince words. With the latest topic of contention being a championship banner going up in the rafters, the big man wasn’t fully on board with the idea. Instead of a direct answer, however, the 4x NBA Champion tried to circumvent the answer. “This is not my time.” 

However, upon further prodding, the former Los Angeles Lakers icon sidestepped the discussion by instead pointing out the management’s genius strategy. “But you know what? The Lakers are smart. Whoever put out that press release is a genius.” 

Due to the difference in the type and color of the banner, the team might be able to get away with it. “We’re going to raise this banner but it’s going to be a different color than the other Championships. That line right there was smart.”

While the 51-year-old legend is taking a more measured approach to the matter, Charles Barkley is on another spectrum entirely.

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Unlike Shaquille O’Neal, Charles Barkley is completely against the banner idea

While O’Neal toes the line between which side he stands on, Barkley has made his position clear. Even though he remains uncertain about its value along with the rest of the TNT crew, the banner-lifting process is too much for Charles.

Instead, he has sworn to roast the Lakers on television if they do indeed raise a banner to commemorate the occasion. With December 17th looking like the official date for the ceremony, we could be in for some fireworks on the TNT show.

Perhaps we also find out where the Big Aristotle truly stands. What are your thoughts on this? Do you think raising a banner for the IST championship is a good decision or it should be reserved only for NBA titles? Let us know in the comments below.

Read More: “Does LeBron James Have 5 Rings?”: Charles Barkley Offers Scathing Criticism of In-Season Tournament Along With New Idea