Turner Sports and Shaquille O’Neal have agreed to an extension. The deal includes Shaq taking on a multitude of new projects and responsibilities.
The larger-than-life persona that is Shaquille O’Neal will continue to entertain America on “Inside the NBA,” and on various other NBA on TNT coverages. The 15-time All-Star will also be gracing NBA TV and NBA.com with his presence. “The Bizne$$ of Basketball” is the title of O’Neal’s new show set to air on NBA TV.
The Diesel spoke highly of the Turner family, and is excited to bring the world more ‘Shaq-tastic moments.’
“Turner Sports is family to me – even you, Chuck – and I’m looking forward to working alongside my talented colleagues as we create many more Shaq-tastic moments in the years to come.”
Shaquille O’Neal
Shaq’s proclivity to entertain the masses will be on full display in this new deal. His touted “Shaqtin a Fool,” will expand and set out to attract the most casual of fans. He’ll be a DJ at CNN’s New Year’s live show, and team with Bleacher Report to fuse sports and culture. Shaq will also be garnering his own podcast as part of his WarnerMeadia portfolio.
“Shaquille’s tenacity as a player and loyal teammate made him one of the best to ever do it on the court, and those skills have translated to his contributions as a broadcaster,” said Tara August, Senior Vice President of Talent Services & Special Projects, Turner Sports. “His fun, infectious personality is engaging, entertaining, and beloved by fans. We’re thrilled to extend and deepen our relationship with him for many years to come.”
Family Business
O’Neal joined Turner Sports in 2011 and instantly became part of the family. His candid analysis of players and contagious laughter has helped propel ‘Inside the NBA’ to one of the world’s best sports and entertainment shows.
Perhaps Shaq’s most salient trait on the show is his ability to mention Barkley’s zero rings in any context. Much to Sir Chuck’s chagrin, he exclaims that Dwyane Wade and Kobe Bryant carried Shaq to his four championships. Nonetheless, the two Hall-of-Famers are the epitome of brotherly love – and make for excellent television.
Shaq and company are currently covering the NBA playoffs on TNT.
