Why Shaquille O'Neal is 'frustrated' after ESPN announces deal to save 'Inside the NBA'

Shaquille O'Neal is reportedly 'frustrated' as his future with 'Inside The NBA' remains unclear - despite the show's new era on ESPN and ABC.

The Lakers legend is part of the hugely popular broadcast crew, alongside presenter Ernie Johnson Jr and analysts Kenny Smith and Charles Barkley.

The future of the show and its pundits was plunged into doubt after it was confirmed that TNT would stop carrying NBA games at the end of the 2024-25 NBA season. 

On Monday, it was revealed that 'Inside the NBA' would now appear on ESPN and ABC from 2025-26, thanks to a partnership involving TNT Sports and the NBA.

O'Neal was announced as part of the crew but, according to reports, the 7ft 1in icon does not currently have a contract to appear on the show next season.

According to Sports Illustrated, O'Neal wants to remain on 'Inside the NBA' but is 'frustrated' to see press releases confirm the same lineup even though he has not signed a new deal with Warner Bros. Discovery. His current deal reportedly expires on July 1, 2025.

It's claimed that O'Neal could remain on 'Inside the NBA' but also sign a deal with rival companies such as Amazon or NBC, the NBA’s new partners from next season.

'Inside the NBA', which has won nearly two dozen Emmy Awards, will reportedly be broadcast on ESPN and ABC around big live events.

Those include ESPN's pregame, halftime and postgame coverage of the NBA Finals on ABC, as well as conference finals and NBA playoffs.

'Inside the NBA is universally recognized as one of the best and most culturally impactful shows in sports,' ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro said in a statement. 

'We have long admired the immensely talented team and are thrilled to add their chemistry and knowledge to our robust set of NBA studio offerings to super-serve NBA fans like never before. 

'The addition of Inside the NBA further solidifies ESPN as the preeminent destination for sports fans.'