Charles Barkley’s dark Jay-Z statement had Shaquille O’Neal almost walk off the set

Charles Barkley took a jibe at Jay-Z following the rappers ongoing legal dispute, forcing Shaquille O'Neal to walk off set.

Charles Barkley’s dark Jay-Z statement had Shaquille O’Neal almost walk off the set

Charles Barkley takes sly jibe at Jay-Z forcing Shaquille O'Neal off set

Charles Barkley’s sharp humor is a signature element of Inside the NBA, but this week, it pushed boundaries in a way that left fellow panelist Shaquille O’Neal literally walking off the set. The moment unfolded during a casual discussion on the show when Jay-Z’s name came up amidst ongoing serious allegations against the rapper.

The discussion originally revolved around basketball and music, as the panel often ventures into pop culture to keep things lively. Kenny Smith inadvertently steered the conversation toward Jay-Z, mentioning his cultural influence. Charles Barkley’s instinctive jab, however, shifted the mood instantly.

YouTube video

Probably not a good time right now.

Charles Barkley hilariously slipped into conversation

Without missing a beat, Barkley slipped in the joke, referencing the sensitive allegations against Jay-Z. The comment, while brief, had the audience and co-panelists in shock, with Shaquille O’Neal unable to contain his laughter. Smith, attempting damage control, redirected the topic to Kendrick Lamar, but by then, the impact of Charles Barkley’s quip had already been felt.

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Shaq, in his typical comedic style, silently rose from his seat, walked offstage, and took a moment to compose himself after being left stunned by Chuck’s out-of-pocket joke. Barkley’s comment was a clear reference to the ongoing legal troubles surrounding Jay-Z.

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The rapper is embroiled in allegations brought by a woman claiming he s**ually assaulted her when she was 13 years old, a charge he has denied. He has countered, claiming these allegations are blackmail by the accuser’s attorney.

Charles Barkley cracks up Shaquille O’Neal with gambling jibe

While Charles Barkley’s humor can occasionally tread on delicate subjects, it is also a cornerstone of Inside the NBA’s success. This week, during a preview of the NBA Cup Finals in Las Vegas, Barkley had the studio laughing again with a more lighthearted quip about his well-documented gambling habits.

Barkley has long been open about his gambling, once estimating lifetime losses at $25 million. As the panel discussed the Vegas roadshow, Barkley leaned into ‘Sin City’s’ reputation, bringing up the high-stakes gambling all around the city.

Boy, I can smell that blackjack table.

Charles Barkley joked

Ernie Johnson tried to remind Charles Barkley that their Vegas trip was for work, not personal indulgence, but it was clear Barkley had other plans in mind.

It smells like money, Shaq.

Charles Barkley added
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The NBA Cup Finals, meanwhile, are shaping up to be just as unpredictable, with players eyeing the $514,971 prize money for the winners. As Barkley and the crew head to Las Vegas, fans can expect more high-stakes action, both on the court and in the broadcast booth.