With a 33-6 record and a spot atop the Western Conference, the Oklahoma City Thunder are having a lot of fun this NBA season.
They’re also having a lot of fun with FanDuel Sports Network Oklahoma sideline reporter Nick Gallo.
Thunder players routinely incorporate Gallo in their pre and post-game routines, messing with him during live shots and making him bark after big wins.
Tuesday night, the Thunder topped the Philadelphia 76ers, 118-102, and celebrated the victory as only they can. By having fun with Gallo as he interviewed star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
As the reporter asked SGA about the victory, several players approached them. Jalen Williams brought a stack of towels with him and passed some around as he, Luguentz Dort, Aaron Wiggins, and Jaylin Williams took turns placing towels on Gallo’s shoulders and head as he kept a straight face during his interview.
The Oklahoma City Thunder towel budget is out of control.
Credit due, @NickAGallo. pic.twitter.com/6csOJRo1F1
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) January 15, 2025
Gallo was a pro through it all, and Gilgeous-Alexander was the one who eventually intervened on his behalf.
“Y’all, you got to chill,” Gilgeous-Alexander said. “I’m sorry Nick. The children, I’m so sorry.”
Gallo seems to take it all in stride and, most notably, powers through the silliness to do what he’s there to do.
As these pranks escalate, you do have to wonder what happens if the Thunder make good on this season’s potential and make a run for the NBA title. Keep your head on a swivel, Nick.
About Sean Keeley
Along with writing for Awful Announcing and The Comeback, Sean is the Managing Editor for Comeback Media. Previously, he created the Syracuse blog Troy Nunes Is An Absolute Magician and wrote 'How To Grow An Orange: The Right Way to Brainwash Your Child Into Rooting for Syracuse.' He has also written non-Syracuse-related things for SB Nation, Curbed, and other outlets. He currently lives in Seattle where he is complaining about bagels. Send tips/comments/complaints to sean@thecomeback.com.