ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania is widely regarded as one of the most relentless news breakers in sports media, known for his around-the-clock dedication to scooping NBA transactions and rumors.
But during Friday night’s 2026 NBA All-Star Celebrity Game, that same work ethic turned into an unintentional spectacle. The 31-year-old reporter not only struggled on the court but also became the subject of jokes and criticism for being glued to his phone while the game was still underway.
Charania, suiting up for Team Giannis, went scoreless with multiple missed shots and committed several turnovers. Yet it wasn’t just his on-court performance that drew attention.
Cameras repeatedly caught him checking his phone on the sideline, seemingly more engaged with his devices than the game itself. The moment quickly went viral on social media, sparking playful jabs and memes from fans across the globe.
In one particularly memorable moment, 15-time NBA All-Star Kevin Durant addressed Charania’s phone obsession directly, tweeting mid-game: “My goodness, have some respect @ShamsCharania…during the game??????????”
The accompanying snapshot of Charania typing away perfectly captured the absurdity of the situation, prompting waves of reactions from players and viewers alike.
When work followed him onto the court
What might have been a harmless act of multitasking at a casual celebrity event instead highlighted Charania‘s reputation as one of the NBA’s most connected insiders.
Durant‘s reaction wasn’t the only playful jab – Giannis Antetokounmpo, who coached Charania‘s team, also poked fun at the reporter’s basketball abilities during pregame remarks.
“You know why it’s not fair? Because we have Shams on my team – he cannot hoop,” Antetokounmpo joked, setting the tone for the night.
Fans quickly joined in the humor, dubbing Charania the evening’s “biggest loser” while others laughed at the surreal sight of a premier NBA journalist unable to detach from his phone even during a game. Social media exploded with playful criticism and GIFs capturing the bizarre spectacle, further cementing the story as one of the evening’s most memorable moments.
Despite the sideline shenanigans, Team Giannis went on to defeat Team Anthony 65-58, with actor Rome Flynn earning MVP honors for a standout performance. But for many viewers, Charania‘s phone checks and on-court struggles will remain the night’s lasting image.
Charania has long worn his obsession with staying informed as a badge of honor, admitting in previous interviews that he operates 24/7, leaving little room for personal life. His dedication serves him well as a top NBA insider but, at least for one evening, it provided the league and its fans with unexpected comedy.
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