With "Inside the NBA" slated to disappear from TNT's banner next season, fans are holding every opportunity to see Charles Barkley, Ernie Johnson, Kenny Smith and Shaquille O'Neal chop things up beneath TNT's gleaming spotlight.
The Pacers' Game 3 joust with the Cavaliers appeared to prove an enticing contest for the four horsemen to make another noteworthy cameo. But when "Inside the NBA" came to the airwaves on Sunday night, one member of the Emmy Award-winning cast was noticeably absent: O'Neal.
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Here's what you need to know.
Where is Shaquille O'Neal?
O'Neal wasn't present for Sunday's "Inside the NBA" broadcast. It wasn't immediately made clear why he was absent from the proceedings, but it was announced that he will also be absent during the network's coverage of Tuesday's doubleheader.
Filling in for the daunting figure on the booth was Jalen Rose, a former Pacers star who has made spot appearances on the program throughout the season. Rose made his TNT debut back in November, serving as both an NBA and college basketball correspondent in his debut year with the network.
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Rose sported rather eye-catching attire on Sunday night. The Michigan alum rocked a red, white and blue suit that appeared to be inspired by his Detroit roots and Pistons fandom.
Jalen Rose is dressed like the American Flag, And Maleka Andrews is dressed like Peaky Blinders pic.twitter.com/0olfuRpvE3
— What's Da Bizness (@whatsdabizness) May 12, 2025
With Rose set to return to TNT's set on Tuesday, it'll be interesting to see if Rose has any other surprises in his closet.