What happened: Russo viewed Shaquille O’Neal’s February 2008 arrival in Phoenix as a boost to the hosts’ shared over wager; Francesa believed it hurt their chances. Licata said other issues were also at play and stopped short of calling the disagreement decisive.
Why it matters: Russo left WFAN later that summer after 19 years with Francesa and launched a SiriusXM channel. The account adds a previously obscure NBA wrinkle to one of New York sports radio’s defining breakups.
By the numbers: Phoenix finished the 2007-08 season 55-27 and exited in the first round. O’Neal made the All-Star team during his first full Suns season in 2008-09.
What to watch: Any response from Francesa or Russo could clarify how heavily the dispute weighed on their split.