League: NBA Sport: Basketball Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Shaquille O'Neal and Charles Barkley name KAT Finals MVP after Game 2

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 8, 2026, 6:53 PM

Last updated Jun 8, 2026

Shaquille O'Neal and Charles Barkley name KAT Finals MVP after Game 2

Summary

After two games in the NBA Finals, Shaquille O'Neal and Charles Barkley praised Karl-Anthony Towns' performance, suggesting he deserves the MVP award. Towns has averaged 21 points on nearly 60% shooting and showed strong defensive play against Victor Wembanyama, limiting him significantly in Game 1. His contributions have been critical as the Knicks have extended their playoff winning streak to 13 games. The NBA Finals are ongoing, with further games to be played.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Towns has 21 points per game on nearly 60% shooting in the Finals.
•He played a key defensive role against Victor Wembanyama, limiting his scoring.
•Knicks have won 13 consecutive playoff games, second in history only to the Warriors.
•O'Neal and Barkley have changed their views on Towns’ performance this series.

Latest Updates

6:53 PMYahoo Sports — Shaq and Charles Barkley just picked a Finals MVP — KAT’s name has everyone talking!

What they're saying

"
Towns surprises Barkley and Shaq, wins over critics with Finals playKarl-Anthony Towns spent years as Charles Barkley and Shaquille O’Neal’s favourite punching bag, the big man they said played soft. Two games into the Finals, both have flipped, and they are calling him the MVP of the series.
— Yahoo Sports

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