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via Getty

via Getty

Kenny Smith’s prayers have been heard! The Diageo-owned Casamigos Tequila brand once again sent a handsome gift for the TNT crew. This time also the credits go to The Jet. However, the gift came with a special message for Shaquille O’Neal from a certain someone who posed with the Big Aristotle for a photoshoot more than three decades ago. This special box sent by the American Tequila brand houses the exquisite jalapeño-infused Tequila called ‘Casamigas’ to celebrate its launch. It is made in honor of one of the founders, Rande Gerber’s wife, Cindy Crawford.

Addressing the TNT crew, the famed supermodel also sent a personalized message. Teasing O’Neal and others, Crawford suggested that the crew might like their new Tequila, which is a bit spicy, and made a special reference to the Lakers legend in a pre-recorded video. In the clip, Crawford can be heard saying, “Hey Kenny, I just wanted you to know that the guys at Casamigos heard your request. But don’t you think it’s time to spice things up a bit?”

She added, “I heard some of you guys like it spicy — I might be talking to you, Shaq. Anyway, your new playoff sponsor is waiting in the wings. Enjoy!” Despite Smith’s efforts, O’Neal got all the attention without even moving a finger. O’Neal and Crawford had posed together for a photoshoot for Star Magazine back in 1993. In one of the pictures, Crawford can even be seen wearing Shaq’s massive jeans. Coming to Shaq liking it spicy part, we are not too sure about it.

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While Shaquille O’Neal has been made a meme on numerous occasions, one of the most memorable ones came during his appearance on Hot Ones. The face he made after eating some spicy wings is legendary and became iconic meme content over the years. It didn’t seem like O’Neal liked things spicy at that time.

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Despite the tense situation at TNT as they head for the conclusion of their NBA broadcast rights deal after the 2024-25 season, the Inside the NBA crew is still here to provide some relief.

George Clooney roasted Charles Barkley 

Soon, the crew headed to unwrap the package waiting for them offstage. While both Smith and Charles Barkley were excited to open the box, Shaquille O’Neal drove them off, saying, “Back off! It’s mine, don’t touch it.” Well, after watching Crawford’s message, the duo can barely argue against the 4x NBA champion.

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This is not the crew’s first tequila gift, though. Last year in April, another founder of the spirits brand, George Clooney sent a package of 20 Tequila bottles for the crew with a special note addressing both O’Neal and the Phoenix Suns legend. While the actor wrote a message praising the Big Aristotle, he had a unique way of greeting Barkley. The note for the Los Angeles Lakers legend read, “You’re the real Superman,” and on the other hand, he took a hilarious shot at Barkley’s poor golfing skills and wrote, “Charles, I’ve seen you play golf.” 

After Diageo acquired the spirits brand for $1 billion in 2017, the company has continued to thrive and become one of the most cherished among Tequila enthusiasts. Certainly, this box was the best gift for the TNT crew!