Watch Shaq give Charles Barkley a massage, help him fight an untimely cramp on 'Inside the NBA' - Sporting News

[massage]

This is the opposite of social distancing, folks.

Charles Barkley and Shaq have been "bitter rivals" on TNT's "Inside the NBA," throwing jabs at each other and hotly debating NBA topics on one of TV's most entertaining studio shows.

But aside from debates and "fat ass" jabs, they're seemingly close friends, too — at least, close enough for Shaq to come to Barkley's aid just in the nick of time, giving him an emergency leg massage during a commercial break on Thursday night's show.

MORE: NBA seeding scenarios, breakdown for final playoff spots

Chuck seems to be trying to fight off a cramp, when Shaq comes to his hand to hammer and massage out the cramp in Barkley's leg, in a pretty tense moment.

"Damn, take me to dinner," Barkley says after the impromptu massage.

"The only thing I'm missing is the blue glove," Shaq jests soon after.

Ernie Johnson added: "Anybody got a pack of smokes?"

This raises the question: Is there anything Shaq can't do? Basketball Hall of Famer, police officer, wrestler, analyst, dancer, actor and, now, massage therapist. The only things missing were incense, mood lighting and warm oils.

While plexiglass may separate them, the bond between the big men is forever.

A reminder to stay hydrated, folks.