It’s not a game till Chuck and Shaq bet against each other. Their former teams are playing, so it warrants a little wager. Shaquille O’Neal did try to drag his frenemy into some high-stakes competition. But Charles Barkley is not ready to go all in against Shaq so easily. He held back and stated his personal but hilarious reason for not putting his money where his mouth is.

The Phoenix Suns played against the Los Angeles Lakers, aka Charles Barkley’s and Shaquille O’Neal’s teams (Shaq played for Phoenix too, but he was in his prime with the Lakers). The TNT crew made the odds exciting, with some wagering among themselves.

Both teams in these quarterfinals were neck-and-neck. Before the Knockout game began, Chuck’s Suns were going 12-8 and Shaq’s Lakers were going 12-9.

WATCH THIS STORY | Shaquille O’Neal Surprises “Dummy” Charles Barkley on New Show Premiere With Mystery Call

“Lakers by 15,” the Lakers’ three-time champion said. “They’re only one game behind Phoenix. So it’s not like it’s a big difference.” 

Across from him, Barkley declared, “I’m gonna disagree with the Big Fella. I’m going with my Suns tonight.” 

With Shaq chanting, “betting” to goad the seasoned sports-betting enthusiast, Barkley declared, “You make a lot on yourself. 15 million!” That is indeed the $60 million worth former Suns star and proud Arizona resident, Charles Barkley, putting $15 million on the Devin Booker-led squad.

Hence, the $400 million-worth Lakers champion, Shaquille O’Neal upped the stakes with $30 million. That’s where Chuck drew the line. “I don’t want to be black and poor getting that.” 

Plot twist: Ultimately they decided something better than putting a chunk of their fortunes on the line. They left their faces in the hands of their teams.

Charles Barkley couldn’t save his face

Ahead of the game, Dana White listened to Shaq and Chuck’s request and set the stage for the two NBA legends’ PowerSlap showdown. They switched their wager for who gets the first slap advantage.

For all his big talk about making the 7’1″ giant “drop like a sack of potatoes” Barkley has to prepare for an ouchie. His Suns lost 103-105 to the Lakers. O’Neal has also commenced the trash-talk now that he gets the first slap.

Top Stories

“Rest in Peace”: NBA World Mourns After Sudden Passing of Miami Heat Legend

Controversial NBA Star Arrested on DUI Charges: Report

Is Jayson Tatum Playing Tonight vs Mavericks? Latest Injury Report on Celtics Star (Mar 6)

LeBron James Reveals Severity of Injury After Being Forced Out vs Nuggets

Backlash Grows Around Unrivaled After Team USA Announces Big Aliyah Boston Decision

Barkley can take some consolation in the fact that he didn’t lose half his net worth. Can’t say the same for his pride though.

Read More: “Me Against Shaq…”: Charles Barkley Has Hilarious Fight Request for UFC President Against Shaquille O’Neal