Grizzlies’ 19-Year-Old Rookie Had Priceless Reaction to Being Interviewed By Shaq After Career Game
TNT’s Inside the NBA gave viewers yet another priceless moment to remember on Monday courtesy of a touching post-game exchange between Shaquille O’Neal and Memphis Grizzlies rookie GG Jackson.
A career night for the 2023 second-round pick in the Grizzlies’ 116–107 win over the Golden State Warriors saw Jackson, who turned 19 on Dec. 17, score 23 points in just his fourth game since being called up from the club’s G League affiliate, the Memphis Hustle.
Jackson’s outstanding night earned the young forward a coveted postgame interview with the Inside crew, which ended with Jackson staring into the camera in astonishment after receiving a congratulations from the Hall of Fame center.
“I don’t have any questions, I just want to say congratulations, young fella,” O’Neal told Jackson, who smiled in disbelief. “You played a hell of a game, and if people didn’t know who you were, they do now. I’m so proud of you.”
After taking a moment to collect himself, Jackson thanked O’Neal before telling him “It’s an honor to get to hear your voice” to cap a heartwarming moment that begged repeat viewing from Ernie Johnson.
Judging by his reaction, Jackson will likely never forget hearing the NBA legend’s kind words after his big performance in front of a national audience on Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
