Basketball icon Shaquille O'Neal provided one of the most memorable moments of the festive sports schedule, after he spectacularly crashed through a studio wall during a live television broadcast on Christmas Day.
Chaos Erupts During Halftime Show
The astonishing incident occurred during the halftime segment of ESPN's coverage, which was analysing the opening Christmas matchup between the New York Knicks and the Cleveland Cavaliers. The 7-foot-1 Hall of Fame center became involved in a heated, on-air pursuit after his co-host, former player Kenny Smith, playfully stole his hat.
As O'Neal gave chase across the Inside the NBA set, he charged up a short flight of stairs and ploughed directly into a massive video screen positioned behind the presenting team. The impact left a perfectly Shaq-sized hole in the centre of the set, with studio lights flickering as the 53-year-old legend disappeared from view through the shattered surface.
A Planned Prank with a Safety Net
Footage of the wreckage was swiftly posted on social media by ESPN, with the broadcaster simply confirming: 'Shaq just ran through a wall.' The programme's other stars, including Charles Barkley and lead host Ernie Johnson, were seen erupting into laughter at the Los Angeles Lakers legend's expense.
However, Johnson was quick to reassure the audience that the event was a planned production stunt. He clarified that precautions had been taken, with a mattress placed behind the wall to ensure the safety of the four-time NBA champion and prevent any injury.
A History of Festive On-Air Antics
This is not the first time O'Neal has been involved in a major physical comedy moment on the Inside the NBA set during the holiday period. In a previous year, a similar halftime race with Kenny Smith went viral when Smith shoved the 325-pound superstar, sending him sliding directly into the studio's large Christmas tree.
Emerging from the pine needles on that occasion, O'Neal—renowned for his love of larger-than-life humour—jokingly declared 'this means war.' Since retiring from play, the beloved 53-year-old has remained a staple of sports broadcasting, frequently entertaining fans with his unpredictable and energetic on-air antics.
The Christmas Day stunt once again proved that Shaq's capacity for surprise and spectacle remains undimmed, turning a routine sports analysis segment into a must-see television event.
