The towering Christmas tree that graces the set of Inside the NBA each holiday season has become a beloved, if somewhat precarious, staple of the show. But for Shaquille O’Neal, it’s more than just a festive decoration—it’s an annual hazard. Fans know that when the tree goes up, it’s only a matter of time before Kenny Smith, in an impish burst of energy, orchestrates yet another hilarious takedown, sending the larger-than-life Shaq sprawling into its branches.
This year, just days before Christmas, the tradition continued. During a lighthearted segment, O’Neal let his guard down for just a moment—enough time for Smith to make his move.
With a perfectly timed shove, Smith launched the 7-foot-1, 325-pound O’Neal directly into the festive foliage. The result? A heap of lights, ornaments, and a laughing basketball legend tangled in the branches of the now-toppled tree.
What makes this recurring bit so compelling is its inevitability. It happens year after year, yet it never loses its charm. Like a perfectly scripted wrestling match—or the classic slapstick comedy of an old-school sitcom—there’s something oddly comforting about the predictability of it all.
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The fact that Shaq, a four-time NBA champion and Hall of Famer, willingly plays along only adds to the magic.
“How does this keep happening?” one viewer joked on social media. The answer might be simple: Shaq’s willingness to lean into the comedy makes him not just a basketball legend but a universally beloved entertainer.
Whether it’s his over-the-top reactions, his larger-than-life persona, or his ability to make fun of himself, O’Neal is the rare superstar who truly enjoys being the butt of the joke.
It’s also a testament to the camaraderie on Inside the NBA, a show where the chemistry between the hosts—Shaq, Kenny, Charles Barkley, and Ernie Johnson—is as much a draw as the basketball analysis. Their playful antics and good-natured ribbing are part of what makes the show a fan favorite.
As for Shaq, his ability to take a fall at 52 is nothing short of impressive. Watching such a massive figure hit the deck, ornaments flying, never fails to elicit laughs. And while some skeptics might suggest that the bit is staged, the genuine joy it brings to viewers is all that really matters.
Whether planned or spur-of-the-moment, this year’s tree crash was another reminder of why Inside the NBA remains one of the most entertaining programs on television.
And as for Shaq? He may want to start wearing pads when the Christmas tree comes out next year. After all, some traditions are worth keeping—especially when they involve so much holiday cheer and laughter.
