After the Memphis Grizzlies’ GG Jackson scored 23 points in a win over the Golden State Warriors on Monday, the 19-year-old rookie couldn’t hide his excitement as he spoke to NBA on TNT during the post-match interview.
A particularly sweet moment occurred when Jackson, who is currently the youngest player in the NBA, heard basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal’s voice ask him a question during the segment.
“GG, Shaq here. I don’t have a question. I just want to say congratulations, young man,” O’Neal, 51, said on the broadcast, which Jackson could hear through headphones.
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 a game on January 15, 2024.
Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty
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“You played a hell of a game and if people didn’t know who you were, now they know who you are,” O’Neal continued. “I’m so proud of you. Congratulations on being ready, bro,” the four-time NBA champion added.
“Well, sir, it’s an honor to hear your voice,” Jackson replied.
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,” prompting laughter from the players.
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Jackson’s stellar performance against Golden State star Stephen Curry and Draymond Green came during his fourth game in the league.
Two days before that, he scored 20 points in a loss to the New York Knicks, putting Jackson in a group with LeBron James and Kevin Durant as the three youngest players in NBA history to score 20+ points in back-to-back games, according to GTV Hoops.
Drafted by Memphis, Jackson was the Gatorade Player of the Year in South Carolina and a two-time state champion with Ridge View High School.
Next, the Grizzlies will travel to Minnesota to take on the Timberwolves.
Categories: Trends
Source: HIS Education