Shaquille O’Neal has been with Inside the NBA for over a decade. There is a possibility one might have heard him say the same story more than once. It’s the issue that Adam Lefkoe has experienced because he not only hosts TNT’s Tuesday show with Shaq but also The Big Podcast. He also stated that his efforts to stop the Lakers’ legend from repeating stories got him in hot waters with the fans. So, he sought help from the person who has built a decade-long relationship with the 4x NBA champion.

“This is happening to me with Shaq right now because I do a podcast with Shaq and then I do TV with Shaq, I have heard Shaq tell the same stories 8,000 times...But then if I interrupt I get like people that are like ‘Man he’s interrupting all the time’.” Lefkoe on The Steam Room podcast vented his frustration to Ernie Johnson and asked for help. “But I’m like ‘I know people have heard the story a thousand times.’ How do you handle that, Ernie?”

The Emmy Award-winning host would describe his answer, but even his methods were questioned. “I might interrupt and then let him continue just to let him know, ‘Hey we’ve heard this story 700 times but for that one person out there who may not be familiar with how you feel about Chris Paul’s leadership.'” Apparently, that’s not how Johnson operates on The Inside Show because Charles Barkley called him out for his behavior. “Ernie’s the worst Adam! Ernie finishes my sentences like stuff.”

But Lefkoe understood the assignment for the next time: “So you give him a note, and then you let him go.” Chuck wasn’t willing to let it slide. “No, he finishes it, Adam.” They were all in unison and knew that Shaquille O’Neal reshares the same stories. One will have to check Ernie Johnson’s method the next time they do a show on TNT.

Even if Johnson finished Shaq’s sentences, there is a reason why the Big Aristotle adores the host. In fact, he also spoke about how the acclaimed Hall of Famer sports broadcaster was the reason for him ditching ESPN. 

17-year Shaquille O’Neal had his first interaction with Ernie Johnson

After his 19 seasons in the league, Shaq suited up for a life as an analyst. Since then, he has mesmerized everybody with his personality and ability to break down the game. But at the beginning of his analyst career, he received offers from ESPN and TNT. The former stated to him “We need you” Meanwhile, the latter simply said, ‘We don’t need you, but we would like to have you.’ Apart from these pitches, Shaq’s primary reason was being alongside Ernie Johnson.

“I have a different type of love for Ernie Johnson. Ernie Johnson was a guy that I used to watch on TV. He actually came to my house when I was 17 years old and interviewed me. Love his voice, love how he treats people, and for me to be sitting by him, no one else can tell that story.” 

So, the Big Aristotle decided to join TNT after fondly remembering that conversation with Ernie Johnson. Their chemistry, even during the show, is a testament to that. That’s why EJ knows how to navigate when Shaquille O’Neal is repeating his stories.