NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal delivered an emotional tribute to longtime colleague Ernie Johnson following the veteran broadcaster’s retirement announcement.
O’Neal, who has worked alongside Johnson on Inside the NBA for years, expressed his appreciation for their relationship and acknowledged how difficult it would be to continue without him.
The former Los Angeles Lakers star began by recalling his admiration for Johnson long before they became colleagues.
“When I was a youngster, there were three guys as a basketball fan I loved to hear talk: Bill Raftery, Dick Vitale, and Ernie Johnson.”
O’Neal explained that Johnson was one of the main reasons he decided to join the television program after his playing career ended.
He also credited Johnson with keeping the show organized despite the unpredictable personalities and frequent disagreements among its analysts.
“I got the opportunity to come here and work for you, and I only came here because you were here. You are the controller of this thing people call a circus.”
Johnson has spent years hosting Inside the NBA, working with O’Neal, Charles Barkley and Kenny Smith.
His role has involved leading discussions, introducing segments and managing the interactions between the former NBA players, whose exchanges have become a major part of the show’s popularity.
O’Neal admitted that he had difficulty imagining the program without Johnson and said the retirement announcement was something he never expected to experience.
“Without you, it’s going to be very, very difficult. I never thought this day would happen.”
The four-time NBA champion concluded his remarks by thanking Johnson for their years together and expressing his affection for his longtime colleague.
“I appreciate you, I love you, and thank you. We’ve had a lot of great years together, and thank you for everything, brother.”
