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[Saba Sports News] Shaquille O’Neal made sure to go out with a bang during what may have been the final broadcast of “Inside the NBA” on TNT.
Shaq and the rest of the iconic crew were on hand Saturday for Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Finals between the Indiana Pacers and New York Knicks at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.
With the NBA Finals airing on ABC, the Pacers’ win marked the end of TNT’s current NBA rights deal. ESPN is expected to take over coverage next season, and with it, reportedly absorb “Inside the NBA.” Before the show signed off, Shaq had a blunt message for the new network.
“To that new network we’re coming to — we’re not coming to eff around,” Shaq said. “And since this is the last show, I’m gonna say it — we’re not coming to f–k around. We’re kicking a–. We’re taking names. And we’re taking over.”
He then turned to the crowd of Pacers fans and added, “Let me see that No. 1 — for the number-one show on TV. We’re coming to take over that next network too.”
“Inside the NBA” earned its reputation — and multiple Emmys — thanks to TNT giving its hosts the freedom to speak their minds. ESPN’s more corporate tone has raised concerns about whether the show will lose its edge, something even Kenny Smith has acknowledged.
But Shaq’s message made one thing clear: the “Inside” crew doesn’t plan on changing who they are.