Why is Shaq Not on TNT? Did Shaq Leave TNT? Where is Shaq Right Now?
by Kavitha
Updated Nov 29, 2023
Who is Shaquille O'Neal?
Shaquille O'Neal, commonly known as Shaq, is a former American professional basketball player and current sports analyst on the TV show Inside the NBA. Born on March 6, 1972, in Newark, New Jersey, he played as a 7-foot-1-inch (2.16 m) and 325-pound (147 kg) center in the National Basketball Association (NBA) for 19 years. O'Neal achieved significant success in his career, winning four NBA championships and earning numerous awards, including NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) in 2000.
After playing college basketball for LSU, O'Neal was the first overall pick in the 1992 NBA draft by the Orlando Magic. He later played for the Los Angeles Lakers, Miami Heat, Phoenix Suns, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Boston Celtics before retiring in 2011. O'Neal's impact on the game led to his induction into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2016. Besides basketball, he is known for his ventures in music, film, and as a sports team owner and general manager in the NBA 2K League.
Full Name
Shaquille Rashaun O'Neal
Date of Birth
March 6, 1972
Birthplace
Newark, New Jersey, USA
Position
Center
Height
7 feet 1 inch (2.16 meters)
NBA Debut
1992 (Orlando Magic selected him as the 1st overall pick)
NBA Teams
Orlando Magic, Los Angeles Lakers, Miami Heat, Phoenix Suns, Cleveland Cavaliers, Boston Celtics
Retirement
Officially announced on June 1, 2011
Post-Retirement
NBA analyst, entrepreneur, actor, music artist, philanthropist
Net Worth
$400 million
Why is Shaq Not On TNT?
Shaquille O'Neal is currently not on TNT's "Inside the NBA" due to hip surgery. After sharing a hospital photo on Twitter, alarming NBA fans, O'Neal's colleague Ernie Johnson confirmed the surgery. Shaq reassured everyone on Instagram, stating he was "fine" and recovering, playfully mentioning a "Brazilian butt lift." The exact duration of his absence is uncertain, but he will miss some episodes as the show returns on March 31, coinciding with the NCAA men's tournament. O'Neal, a key analyst for 13 seasons on Inside the NBA, will be temporarily replaced. Despite the setback, Shaq remains active in his business ventures, including the opening of a Big Chicken location in Philadelphia next month. His return to the NBA show is anticipated after a successful recovery.
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Shaquille O'Neal Career
Shaquille O'Neal, or Shaq, began his basketball journey as a college star at LSU before entering the NBA in 1992 as the first overall draft pick for the Orlando Magic. His imposing presence and skill quickly earned him recognition, but the Magic couldn't secure an NBA championship during his four-year stint.
In 1996, Shaq embarked on a new chapter with the Los Angeles Lakers, teaming up with Kobe Bryant. Their partnership became legendary, leading the Lakers to three consecutive NBA championships from 2000 to 2002. Shaq's dominance on the court, paired with his larger-than-life personality, turned him into a basketball icon.
In 2004, Shaq moved to the Miami Heat, where he promised to bring a championship to the city. True to his word, he played a pivotal role in the Heat's 2006 NBA title victory. Despite tensions with Kobe Bryant in Los Angeles, Shaq's leadership and skills continued to leave an indelible mark on the basketball world.
Later, Shaq donned the jerseys of the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Boston Celtics (2009–2011). His goal in Cleveland was to support LeBron James in their championship pursuit, but injuries hampered their playoff success. Joining the Celtics, Shaq faced further challenges due to injuries, eventually announcing his retirement in 2011.
Beyond the NBA, Shaq represented the U.S. national team, winning gold in the 1994 FIBA World Championship and the 1996 Olympics. However, after 1996, he chose to focus solely on his NBA career, declining invitations for international competitions.
Shaquille O'Neal's legacy extends beyond his on-court achievements. His charisma, impact on the game, and four NBA championships solidify his status as one of basketball's all-time greats. His journey is a testament to the power of dedication and talent in leaving an enduring mark on the sport.
Did Shaq Leave TNT?
Yes, Shaquille O'Neal, the NBA Hall of Famer and studio analyst on TNT's "Inside the NBA," has temporarily left the show. He recently underwent hip surgery, as confirmed by his colleague Ernie Johnson. Shaq posted a photo on Twitter from a hospital bed, which caused some concern among NBA fans. However, in an Instagram post, he reassured everyone, jokingly stating that he received a "Brazilian butt lift" and emphasizing that he is "fine" and in the process of recovery.
Despite this surgery, it's not clear how long Shaq will be away from his role as a studio analyst on Inside the NBA. The show is set to return on March 31, and the NBA playoffs begin on April 15. Shaq has been a part of Inside the NBA for 13 seasons, providing analysis alongside Ernie Johnson, Kenny Smith, and Charles Barkley. He also appears on the network's Tuesday night coverage with Candace Parker, Jamal Crawford, and Adam Lefkoe. Despite his temporary absence from the show, Shaq remains active in various endeavors, including his fast-casual eatery, Big Chicken, and other business ventures.
Shaquille O'Neal Net Worth
Shaquille O'Neal, the retired basketball legend, entrepreneur, and TV personality, boasts a net worth of $400 million. His illustrious 19-year NBA career, marked by four championships, three Finals MVP awards, and 15 All-Star selections, significantly contributed to his financial success. Beginning with the Orlando Magic in 1992, Shaq's dominance reached its peak during his Lakers stint (1996–2004), clinching three consecutive NBA titles alongside Kobe Bryant.
Beyond basketball, Shaq's business acumen shines, with estimated career earnings surpassing $800 million, making him one of the highest-paid athletes ever. His endorsement deals with Reebok, Pepsi, and others, coupled with a charismatic personality, continue to generate an annual income of around $60 million. Shaq's diverse ventures, from film and music to TV analysis on "Inside the NBA" and savvy investments in Google and Papa John's, showcase his multifaceted financial prowess.
Where is Shaq Right Now?
As of now, Shaquille O'Neal, the retired NBA legend, splits his time between three cities: Dallas, Florida, and Miami. Despite retiring from basketball a decade ago, Shaq maintains a luxurious lifestyle with a net worth of $400 million. In Dallas, he recently acquired a mansion in the suburbs with five bedrooms and six bathrooms, showcasing his continued real estate ventures.
Additionally, Shaq owns a grand estate in Windermere, Florida, near Orlando, characterized by its exclusivity and stunning surroundings. The Florida property boasts impressive features, including a car showroom, a 95-foot pool, 12 bedrooms, an indoor basketball court, and 700 square feet of lake frontage. While Shaq may not be on the basketball court, his current focus extends to real estate investments, entrepreneurial pursuits, and enjoying life across his residences in Dallas, Florida, and Miami.
Why is Shaq Not on TNT - FAQs
Shaq is currently recovering from hip surgery, temporarily sidelining him from TNT's "Inside the NBA."
No, Shaq's absence is temporary due to his hip surgery; he is expected to return after a successful recovery.
Shaq's net worth is $400 million, earned through his NBA career, endorsements, and diverse business ventures.
Shaq currently resides in Dallas, Florida, and Miami, owning properties in these locations.
Shaq won four NBA championships, earned three Finals MVP awards, and made 15 All-Star selections during his illustrious 19-year NBA career.