'Kimmel' primetime specials set to air

LOS ANGELES, June 3 (UPI) -- "Jimmy Kimmel Live" is to run special half-hour prime time shows on each night ABC airs the NBA finals, the network has announced.

Beginning Thursday, Kimmel will welcome special guests such as David Beckham, Edward Norton, Charles Barkley, Liv Tyler, Adam Sandler, Eminem, Shaquille O'Neil, Magic Johnson and New Orleans Hornets guard and 2008 MVP contender Chris Paul, among others, ABC said.

Signature comedy pieces will also air throughout the specials, including a celebrity bowling match, a spelling bee, outrageous basketball tricks and a casino night in which Kimmel's Aunt Chippy will attempt to win big at blackjack.