Shaquille O’Neal, GG Jackson.Photo:Arturo Holmes/Getty; Cooper Neill/NBAE via Getty
Arturo Holmes/Getty; Cooper Neill/NBAE via Getty
After Memphis Grizzlies' GG Jackson scored 23 points in a victory over the Golden State Warriors on Monday, the 19-year-old rookie couldn’t hide his excitement while chatting withNBA on TNTduring a postgame interview.
An especially sweet moment happened when Jackson, who is currently the youngest player in the NBA, heard basketball legendShaquille O’Neal’s voice asking him a question during the segment.
“GG, Shaq here. I don’t have a question. I just want to say congratulations, young fella,” O’Neal, 51, said on the broadcast, which Jackson could hear through a headset.
The Grizzlies rookie’s face immediately lit up with surprise and emotion when he heard O’Neal’s voice.
GG Jackson #45 of the Memphis Grizzlies talks to the media after the game on January 15, 2024.Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty
Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty
“You played a hell of a game, and if people didn’t know who you were, they know who you are now,” O’Neal continued. “I’m so proud of you. Congratulations on being ready, brother,” the four-time NBA champion added.
“Well, sir, it’s an honor to get to hear your voice,” Jackson responded.
After the sweet interaction, O’Neal’s TNT co-host Charles Barkley chimed in, joking that Jackson “could tell it was Shaq because he was mumbling,” which got a chuckle out of the player.
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Jackson’s stellar performance against Golden State’s star-studded roster ofStephen CurryandDraymond Greencame during his fourth game in the league.
Next, the Grizzlies will travel to Minnesota to take on the Timberwolves.
source: people.com
