Memphis Grizzlies forward GG Jackson could not believe his ears when Shaq spoke to him on TNT broadcast on Monday.
Jackson posted a career-high 23 points in a 116-107 win over the Golden State Warriors at FedExForum in Memphis, Tenn.
Jackson’s stellar performance earned him postgame interview honors. The South Carolina alum’s face perked up the moment he heard Shaq on the other end of his headset.
“GG, Shaq here. I don’t have any questions. I just want to say congratulations, young fella. You played a hell of a game,” Shaq told the Grizzlies rookie from the TNT studio. “If people didn’t know who you were, they know who you are now. I’m so proud of you.”
Jackson called it “an honor” to hear Shaq’s voice. Hearing the 15-time All-Star sing his praises probably made the moment extra special for Jackson.
GG Jackson couldn’t believe Shaq was interviewing him on TNT 💗 pic.twitter.com/TQOS8JgBpU
— Def Pen Hoops (@DefPenHoops) January 16, 2024
Jackson took full advantage while filling in for a severely depleted Grizzlies squad.
The rookie has played in just eight of the team’s 40 games this season. But with Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, and Marcus Smart all on the injured list, youngsters like Jackson have been thrust into a bigger role earlier than expected.
Jackson’s 23-point performance came right after his 20-point, 6-rebound effort on Sunday against the New York Knicks.
