During the TNT and ESPN joint coverage for the NBA in-season tournament, Charles Barkley had a humorous exchange with Stephen A. Smith.
Before the games kicked off, Barkley set some lighthearted ground rules, cautioning Smith about his energetic demeanor, stating, “this ain"t First Take."
In a playful manner, Barkley warned Smith that if he brought his trademark loud talking, it might result in the “first a** whooping" of the event, emphasizing the different vibe compared to their usual morning sports talk show.
Chuck wasn't trying to hear it from Stephen A. on the NBA crossover broadcast for the IST 🤣 pic.twitter.com/gpkYB7fiW2
— Ball Don’t Lie (@Balldontlie) December 7, 2023
As the two sports networks collaborated for the in-season semifinal games in Las Vegas, ESPN covered the clash between the Milwaukee Bucks and Indiana Pacers.
The Pacers emerged victorious with a 128-119 win, thanks to an outstanding performance by Tyrese Haliburton, who contributed 27 points, 15 assists, and seven rebounds.
TNT, on the other hand, took on the coverage of the West Conference semifinal matchup between the New Orleans Pelicans and the Los Angeles Lakers.
