It was one of those unpredictable moments that only Shaquille O’Neal could turn into a viral sensation. During a live broadcast of TNT’s Inside the NBA, the basketball legend abruptly walked off the set mid-discussion, leaving co-hosts and viewers wondering what just happened.
The crew—Ernie Johnson, Kenny Smith, and Charles Barkley—were dissecting Game 2 of the first-round playoff series between the Denver Nuggets and LA Clippers when Shaq casually stood up and left the studio desk. Naturally, the internet exploded with theories, jokes, and memes.
Was it a medical emergency? Did he forget his lines? Or, as social media hilariously guessed, was it a sudden urge to “go number two”?
The Joke That Went Too Far (And Just Kept Going)
As Tuesday’s episode rolled around, the joke hadn’t died down. In fact, the teasing was still going strong, prompting Shaq to end the speculation in classic Shaquille fashion.
“I had to pee, you dummies,” he declared, laughing off the rumors that swirled after his dramatic exit.
That single sentence was enough to send the live studio and internet back into a frenzy—but at least now we knew the truth. Just another unscripted gem in the treasure chest of iconic moments from Inside the NBA.
A Show Known for Unfiltered Fun… and a Pending Farewell
Shaq’s bathroom break incident might be remembered as one of the show’s most hilarious live moments—one that perfectly represents the Emmy-winning program’s mix of basketball insights and candid comedy.
But all good things must come to an end—or at least move. As part of a broader settlement between Warner Bros. Discovery and the NBA, Inside the NBA will wrap up its legendary run on TNT at the end of the season.
Though the show is heading to ESPN and ABC next season, it’ll still be produced by TNT Sports in Atlanta. Fans can breathe easy knowing that the full gang—Shaquille O’Neal, Ernie Johnson, Kenny Smith, and Charles Barkley—will remain intact.
I am a writer with a passion for technology and gaming. I write about a variety of subjects, including Esports, Games, Shows, and Sports. I create engaging and informative content for Hiptoro.