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Shaquille O'Neal's knack for taking festive tumbles reached new heights during the latest holiday broadcast of Inside the NBA on TNT. In a now-traditional Christmas prank, Kenny "The Jet" Smith managed to topple the 7-foot-1 NBA legend into a massive Christmas tree on set, leaving viewers and co-hosts in fits of laughter.
The playful ambush unfolded as the bantered about holiday traditions. Smith cleverly led Shaq toward the tree under the guise of retrieving a gift, only to deliver a not-so-subtle shove that sent the Big Fella crashing into the glittering foliage.
With his legs comically sticking out, Shaq's dramatic tumble had Charles Barkley and Adam Lefkoe rushing to his "rescue," all while struggling to contain their laughter in Ernie Johnson's absence.
This isn't the first time Shaq has fallen victim to Smith's holiday hijinks. In 2022, The Jet executed a nearly identical prank, proving that even the mighty O'Neal can't seem to outwit his mischievous co-host. Despite the déjà vu, the moment remains as hilarious as ever, cementing its place as a fan-favorite gag.
What's with the gifts from Shaq?
The festive fun didn't stop at Shaq's tumble. As the laughter subsided, the turned their attention to the big man's reputation as "Shaq-a-Claus." Known for his generous holiday spirit, Shaq is famous for gifting thoughtful presents to children in need. However, his co-hosts claim they get a less luxurious deal.
"You give them real gifts. You give us stuff with your face on it!" Smith quipped, referring to the promotional products Shaq often shares.
Barkley ed the ribbing, suggesting Shaq's gifts usually feature items like Icy Hot or Gold Bond. When asked what he'd prefer from his larger-than-life co-host, Barkley didn't mince words: "Cash is always king."
We have Christmas pranks for the foreseeable future
With Shaq's epic tumble and the crew's signature banter, this year's Christmas episode delivered all the holiday cheer-and hilarity-fans have come to expect from Inside the NBA. One thing is certain: the pranks, the laughs, and the camaraderie aren't going anywhere anytime soon.