Charles Barkley’s fear of snakes was exposed by his own guarantee button.
On TNT’s “Inside the NBA” Wednesday night, the Hall of Famer, joined by hosts Ernie Johnson, Kenny Smith and Shaq, discussed Game 2 of the Suns-Nuggets Western Conference semifinals.
After Barkley predicted a Denver victory in Game 2 (the Nuggets would eventually lose, 123-98), he hit his guarantee button — as he does with every game prediction, which usually results in a colorful light display, and more recently, some wild event.
Upon pounding the button, circus members invaded Studio J, and a woman with a massive python emerged.
Barkley laid eyes on the yellow snake and immediately bolted from his seat.
So, the “NBA on TNT” hosts had some fun with his fear.
Shaq grabbed Barkley’s waist from behind so he couldn’t run away and requested for the snake to come closer.
“Face your fears, Chuck,” Shaq said laughing.
As the Lakers legend petted the python, Barkley didn’t want any part of it.
“Snakes aren’t to be played with,” he added later during the show.