Inside the NBA has long been recognised for blending basketball analysis with humour, creating a tone that sets it apart from traditional studio shows.

That balance has become a defining feature, with spontaneous jokes often emerging during live broadcasts without turning the programme into pure comedy.

One of the latest moments to capture attention even brought golf into the conversation, as Rory McIlroy became part of an unexpected exchange.

During last Saturday’s show, a fan took aim at Ernie Johnson Jr’s green jacket with a message sent in.

“Did EJ steal Rory’s green jacket after The Masters? Lol,” a fan wrote on X and it was shown during the broadcast.

Johnson responded immediately, delivering a blunt reply that kept the tone in line with the show’s style.

He stated: “This is the most predictable thing in the world. Anytime you wear a green jacket. Somebody’s going to say, ‘Hey, it’s a Masters’ jacket.’ Zach, it doesn’t hurt my feelings, man. Your mom picked it out.”

Shaquille O’Neal stepped in with his own comment before Johnson’s brutal response to the fan.

The former Lakers centre said: “Hey, Zach, you can mess around with us, but don’t mess around with the Godfather.”

Johnson’s quick response showed why he commands that respect, justifying the “Godfather” label in the process.

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