After hanging up his boots in 2011, Shaq did not waste time to sign up as an analyst with TNT. While plethora of veteran players from various leagues were seen featuring with sports media company – ESPN, the 4-time NBA Champion decided to do something unusual, perhaps his first move after retiring.
Given that Shaq had a major offer from ESPN as well at that time, the big man recently revealed the primary reason why he chose TNT over ESPN. For those who are not aware, Diesel met with David Levy, who was the former President of TNT parent company – Turner an emphasized how easily gelled up with him and his style of working.
During an appearance on the ‘Marchand and Ourand,’ Shaq revealed the key difference in both these organization and given his nature and style of working how TNT suited him in a more comforting manner.
Shaq on why he chose TNT
“Mr. Levy came to my house and he said, ‘We don’t need you, but we would like to have you,’” Shaq stated as reported by Larry Brown Sports. “ESPN was saying we need you. So, I was thinking if I have a bad day at Turner, I’m gonna be OK. But if I have a bad day at ESPN, it can only get worse.”
This wasn’t only reason, Shaq even brough in his good friend -Ernie Johnson in the mix of it, emphasizing on the respect he shared for his co-host since the initial days.
“Listen, I have a different type of love for Ernie Johnson,” Shaq said. “Ernie Johnson was a guy that I used to watch on TV. He actually came to my house when I was 17 years old to interview me. I love his voice. I love how he treats people. I’m not as good as Ernie. So, me being by myself, I’m gonna have to carry. I don’t think my ADHD would allow me to carry a show by myself. Being a teammate on a great team I think has done well for us. … Just being one of the guys is something I enjoy, rather than trying to be the guy. I could never do what Ernie does.”
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