Wondering whether Shaquille O’Neal is leaving Inside the NBA following the hit show’s recent transition over to ESPN. In a recent deal, TNT handed over its NBA media rights to Amazon, NBC, and ESPN, which sparked his departure rumors. Hence, many have questioned whether Shaq’s contract will be affected by this latest move.
Here are all the details.
Could Shaq be leaving Inside the NBA?
No, Shaquille O’Neal is not leaving Inside the NBA.
O’Neal is in a long-term agreement with TNT, which will pay him over $15 million annually. This extended contract will allow him to stay on the show despite the network’s move to ESPN. Nevertheless, his contract’s tenure is yet to be disclosed.
The rumors about Shaq’s alleged departure came to light after the broadcast of TNT’s NBA final season. Aside from ESPN, the deal is joined by Disney, NBC, and Amazon Prime Video, aiming to bring the league about $76 billion over 11 years’ tenure. Earlier, the NBA turned down Warner Bros. Discovery’s $1.8 billion yearly deal. This ended their long-term collaboration, handing off rights to the new network.
Previously, the NBA legend also made an NSFW comment about getting fired during the Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Oklahoma City Thunder game. This led to his departure rumors solidifying. He and NBA analyst Charles Barkley raced each other in front of the live audience on TNT.
After winning the race, Shaq returned to his seat and made a shocking comment. He said, “In the words of Marshawn Lynch, I’m tired as s—, America. We’re getting fired anyway, Ernie, f— it!” While the comment gained massive traction, it appears it was just a joke. O’Neal, along with Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith, and host Ernie Johnson, are on Inside the NBA’s latest lineup upon its move to ESPN.
Originally reported by Shazmeen Navrange on ComingSoon.
