The Miami Heat are a resilient bunch of players. Refusing to allow the Nuggets a 2-game advantage in the NBA Finals, Jimmy Butler and Co. successfully delivered a comeback win after trailing by as much as 15 points at one point. Aided by the 4th quarter heroics of Duncan Robinson, the Miami side was able to hand Denver their first home loss of this year’s playoffs. While Charles Barkley had guaranteed the Western Conference champs to clinch a win, Shaquille O’Neal couldn’t help but boast after his prediction of a Heat victory turned out to be true.
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As it turns out, the Diesel told Sir Charles at halftime that Miami was going to win the contest. But the Round Mound of Rebound didn’t allow the 7-feet-1 analyst to gloat about his pick by deflecting the topic in the most hilarious manner.
Charles Barkley hilariously deflects Shaq’s question following Miami’s win
Trying to brag that he predicted the Heat’s win correctly, Shaq asked Chuck to reiterate the conversation they had at half-time. Not allowing the Lakers legend any satisfaction, Barkley joked that O’Neal had actually complimented his good looks.
Their interaction went like this:
Shaq: “What did I tell you at halftime who’s gonna win the game?”
Chuck: “Damn, Charles, you’re good-looking.”
Shaq: “What did I tell you at halftime who’s gonna win the game?”
Chuck: “I’m telling you what you told me in the locker room the other day… You told me my body was looking good.”
If this were true, it wouldn’t be the first time Shaq was dishing out praises to Barkley, who has lost a lot of weight to reach his current 290 lbs frame, during this year’s playoffs. Prior to Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Finals, the Diesel called the Chuckster “delicious” after seeing him shirtless by the pool. On live TV, O’Neal said, “Chuck I saw you at the pool today with your shirt off, and boy, you look delicious.”
It’s absolutely heartening to see these two be playful with each other. With this Heat-Nuggets game being their last appearance on TV for the season, it’s good to see the two leave for their vacations on a sweet note.
“Charles Barkley is like the big brother I never had”: Shaquille O’Neal
On the Inside the NBA show, Shaq and Chuck are always quarreling over trivial things. Whether it is something about their careers or their weight, the duo gets into petty arguments all the time.
However, they shared a beautiful moment prior to Game 2’s tip-off. Lauding Barkley and calling him a “big brother”, O’Neal gave fans an insight into his relationship with Charles.
From getting into heated altercations during their playing days to displaying their love on national TV, Shaq and Charles have come a long way. Their flawless chemistry and hilarious banter on live TV make the NBA playoffs even more entertaining for fans.
