As Paolo Banchero sat down for a live interview with Charles Barkley on TNT after being named the NBA’s Rookie of the Year for the 2022-23 NBA season, Barkley wasted no time in congratulating the 20-year-old on his achievement. However, the former NBA player couldn’t resist taking a hilarious jab at fellow Inside the NBA analyst Shaquille O’Neal.
ChuckPaolo pic.twitter.com/K6ZfIjeKsK
— James Burnes (@JamesBurnes8) April 25, 2023
Barkley took Banchero through a bit of Orlando’s basketball history, informing him that he was already the second-best big man in franchise history, behind only Dwight Howard. However, Barkley intentionally omitted O’Neal from his list of great Magic bigs, despite the former NBA player’s prolific tenure with the franchise.
During the interview, Banchero was shown side-by-side photos of the two previous Magic Rookie of the Year winners: Shaq (1992-93) and Mike Miller (2000-01). Barkley couldn’t help but take another jab at O’Neal, remarking, “Man, what happened to you? You used to be skinny,” to which O’Neal responded, “I’m skinnier than you. That’s all I need to be.”
It’s not the first time Barkley has playfully teased O’Neal, and it’s clear that the two have a friendly rivalry. Fans of the show love the dynamic between the two former players, as their witty banter and hilarious digs keep them entertained.
Barkley’s comments were all in good fun, and it’s clear that he has a lot of respect for O’Neal. As a former NBA player himself, Barkley understands the significance of being a great big man, and his comments to Banchero were meant to encourage and inspire the young player.
Overall, the interview was a lighthearted and fun moment for NBA fans, with Barkley once again proving that he has a sharp wit and a great sense of humor.
The Magic of Paolo Banchero
Paolo Banchero is a rising star in the world of basketball. Born on November 12, 2002, this 20-year-old power forward stands at an impressive height of 6’10” and weighs 250 lbs. He played college basketball at Duke before being drafted by the Orlando Magic as the first overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft.
In his first season with the Magic, Banchero has already made a name for himself. He averages 20.0 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game. His field goal percentage is 42.7%, and he shoots 29.8% from beyond the arc.
Moreover, Banchero’s impressive stats are just the beginning of his promising career. With his height, athleticism, and skill, he has the potential to become one of the best players in the league. The Orlando Magic made a wise decision in drafting him, and it will be exciting to see how he continues to develop and grow as a player.
In conclusion, Paolo Banchero is a young player with a bright future ahead of him. His impressive stats and potential make him a player to watch in the coming years.
