Kenny Smith reveals details of call with Shaquille O'Neal's mother after Christmas tree incident

Shaquille O'Neal went flying into a Christmas tree a week ago when Kenny Smith hit him on the way to TNT’s huge play monitor. It wasn’t the first time that the diminutive Smith took a literal shot at O’Neal that somehow brought collateral damage to a Christmas tree.

Last night, many were expecting a little more of the same horseplay from both former NBA champs on their way to the monitor yet again. Smith, this time, didn’t even bother to attempt to bolt out of his chair to beat Shaq and had this to say:

“Things got out of control. I had to speak to his mom. His mom called, I actually had to speak to his mom! She was like, ‘Was he alright?’ She did not like it! I told her this week, I’m gonna be gentle, I’m gonna treat him like a king.”

While Kenny Smith was explaining what happened during the call with Shaquille O'Neal’s mom, Charles Barkley called Shaq a crybaby. O’Neal’s mom calling to see how the 7'2 man mountain was doing after a slight push was just hilarious.

The three-time NBA Finals MVP could not have been hurt after Smith’s hit. O'Neal took another shot at the Christmas tree after the NBA on TNT crew begged him not to.

The TNT studio brought out a sparkling new tree after the original one was destroyed a week ago. Fortunately, this one survived after Smith decided to throw roses around Shaquille O’Neal’s feet and invited him to the monitor instead of racing against him.

The holidays have only just begun and there’s no telling what horseplay the NBA on TNT analysts can come up with. In the meantime, the poor Christmas tree can breathe a sigh of relief and thank Lucille O’Neal for the call to Kenny Smith.

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Shaquille O'Neal’s tradition of gift-giving continues through his Shaq-A-Claus initiative

Shaq will continue his Shaq-A-Claus by visiting several cities to give to underprivileged youth. (Image via Shaquille O'Neal Foundation)

Shaquille O'Neal isn’t all about destroying Christmas trees, particularly when he’s not with Kenny Smith, Charles Barkley, and Ernie Johnson. He’s also all about providing and bringing joy to underprivileged youth.

This Christmas season, the Shaquille O'Neal Foundation will be visiting Atlanta, Las Vegas, New Jersey and Orlando for its annual gift-giving and parties for the youth.

Today, the LA Lakers legend will commence his tour at the Shaquille O’Neal Boys & Girls Club in Henry County. The renovation of the facility was completed in 2021 for $11.1 million. O’Neal took care of the building’s facelift as he wanted to give new space for the kids to be comfortable with.

For one day, the Hall of Famer will play Santa Claus to children until 12th grade. Shaq’s foundation will be inviting the kids to a party where meals, clothing, and toys will be handed out.