Shaquille O’Neal, a prominent figure in the NBA, has decided to step back from watching the NBA Finals unless there is a financial incentive involved. Following his final appearance on TNT earlier this month, O’Neal spent the first two games of the Finals providing coverage on NBA TV alongside Kenny Smith, with Charles Barkley set to join in for the upcoming games. However, after the Oklahoma City Thunder’s win over the Indiana Pacers, he expressed that he was mentally checked out and looking forward to his vacation in the Bahamas.
Reflecting on the game, O’Neal remarked, “Now we have a series. I won’t even be watching… I’m gonna be in the Bahamas.” His co-hosts reminded him that he could still catch the games from the Caribbean, but Shaq humorously dismissed the idea, suggesting that he would rather enjoy his vacation without the distractions of the Finals.
While the matchup between the Thunder and Pacers may not captivate the casual fan, the NBA remains hopeful for an extended series, especially after the teams split the initial games. O’Neal’s playful banter reflects his unique position as both an ambassador for the league and a candid commentator, often blurring the lines between fandom and professional analysis.
This light-hearted take on O’Neal’s absence from the Finals serves as a reminder of the personalities that help shape the narrative of the NBA. As fans look forward to the continuation of the series, the league can take comfort in knowing that the excitement surrounding the Finals continues to generate buzz, even amidst the skepticism of its own stars.
O’Neal’s comments suggest he appreciates a lighter side to the business of basketball, and there’s an underlying hope that the Finals can still capture the attention of both die-hard and casual fans alike.