Why Shaquille O’Neal Is ‘Frustrated’ After ESPN Announces Deal To Save ‘Inside the NBA’

Shaquille O’Neal is reportedly ‘frustrated’ as his future with ‘Inside The NBA’ remains unclear – despite the show’s new era on ESPN and ABC.

That’s Lakers legend part of the very popular broadcast crew, along with host Ernie Johnson Jr and analysts Kenny Smith and Charles Barkley.

The future of the show and its pundits were thrown into doubt after it was confirmed that TNT would stop carrying NBA games at the end of the 2024–25 NBA season.

On Monday, it was revealed that ‘Inside the NBA’ would now air on ESPN and ABC from 2025-26, thanks to a partnership involving TNT Sports and the NBA.

O’Neal was announced as part of the cast, but according to reports, the 7ft 1in icon currently does not have a contract to appear on the show next season.

According to Sports Illustrated, O’Neal wants to remain on ‘Inside the NBA’ but is ‘frustrated’ to see press releases confirming the same lineup, even though he has not signed a new deal with Warner Bros. Discovery. His current deal reportedly expires on July 1, 2025.

Shaquille O’Neal Reportedly ‘Frustrated’ As His ‘Inside The NBA’ Future Remains Unclear

(L-R) O’Neal, Ernie Johnson, Kenny Smith and Charles Barkley on ‘Inside the NBA’

It is claimed that O’Neal could remain on ‘Inside the NBA’ but also sign a deal with rival companies such as Amazon or NBC, the NBA’s new partners from next season.

“Inside the NBA,” which has won nearly two dozen Emmy Awards, will reportedly air on ESPN and ABC around major live events.

These include ESPN’s pregame, halftime and postgame coverage of the NBA Finals on ABC, as well as the conference finals and NBA playoffs.

“Inside the NBA is universally recognized as one of the best and most culturally influential shows in sports,” ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro said in a statement.

‘We have long admired the immensely talented team and are excited to add their chemistry and knowledge to our robust set of NBA studio offerings to super-service NBA fans like never before.

“The addition of Inside the NBA further strengthens ESPN as the premier destination for sports fans.”