NBA: ‘They’re fighting for that $500,000’ – Shaquille O'Neal on Philadelphia upset loss in In-Season Tournament

Shaquille O'Neal says he believes money is the main attraction of the NBA In-Season Tournament, as he reflected on the Philadelphia 76ers' surprise loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers.

The Cavs stunned their hosts with a 122-119 win, and O'Neal accused the 76ers of disrespecting their opponents.

Darius Garland claimed 32 points on the night for the home team, while Jarrett Allen added 26 in a memorable overtime victory.

“We're all NBA players and when you're playing against guys who are perceived to be bigger and better than you, you're going to be playing above your head,” O'Neal told TNT Sports.

“One thing you have to do is respect them. They [Philadelphia] didn't respect Cleveland because all those guys are missing, and they came to play.

"This In-Season Tournament...they are not fighting for the trophy; they’re fighting for that $500,000.

"It's very exciting what they're doing but it ain't about the trophy, it's about each player getting that $500,000.

“But again when you're playing against NBA players, you can never disrespect your opponent.

“Of course, Philly were supposed to win this game, but they didn't. Cleveland came out, they played free because they weren't supposed to win anyway, and they did what they were supposed to do.”

Questions will be asked of the 76ers after succumbing to a third consecutive defeat at home, and they cannot progress into the quarter-finals after losing both of their In-Season Tournament matches in Philadelphia.

Although it may have been a night to forget for the hosts, the Cavaliers will earn the plaudits after winning four consecutive games and remaining in contention for a wild card berth in the Eastern Conference.

“It gives us some confidence,” said Garland in quotes published by nba.com.

“We have to keep it rolling, keep moving the ball and the bodies moving. Our bigs have been holding it down right now.”

Their coach J.B. Bickerstaff echoed Shaq's thoughts and how his players were determined to upset the odds as underdogs.

“These guys want to do it for each other,” he added.

“The Cavaliers way is that the team is better than the individual. These guys bought into it and they are figuring out who we are.”

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