Poll : Is 300 pounds of greatness a good nickname? Bad: Any initials (KG, KD, MJ, etc.) From breaking backboards to samurai swords,the NBA will miss Shaquille O'Neal. held on to win game 6 with O'Neal scoring 28 points with 16 rebounds and 5 blocks to help Miami reach their first-ever NBA Finals. [120][126] It was the last regular season game he would play that year. But he doesnt seem like someone hanging out with an academic crowd, either. That's all. "It's not going to be man-on-man, so don't even try that," says O'Neal with an incredulous laugh. Please note: prices are correct and items are available at the time the article was published. O'Neal assisted in the recruitment efforts and personally persuaded both men to join the squad, each forgoing larger salaries in favor of a chance to win an NBA championship. [88] O'Neal said his relationship with Wade was not "all that good" by the time he left Miami, but he did not express disappointment at Wade for failing to stand up for him.[89]. Shaquille O'Neal was not the only person on the receiving end of Charles Barkley's comments, as Barkley also recently took the opportunity to take shots at some New Orleans Pelicans teammates. In the same vein as Combs going by Puff Daddy, ONeal added a similar stage name. Shaq also immortalized a number of other nicknames for other players, some flattering and some less so. O'Neal also won the scoring title while finishing second in rebounds and third in blocked shots. In this case, it refers to a person who uses a certain name. Shaq earned many cool names after winning ample awards in his basketball career. He was calling himself a great shooter and comparing himself to European players like Peja Stojakovic. [60] For the season, O'Neal averaged 27.2 points and 10.7 rebounds, excellent statistics but below his career average; he was less of a defensive force during the season. Looking at this picture of Shaq andthe Terminator's ex and son, I'm sure you agree. And it sounds cool to me. In his first playoff series, O'Neal averaged 20.7 points and 13.3 rebounds as the Pacers swept the Magic. Nuggets center Nikola Jokic and Knicks guard Jalen Brunson were named the NBA's Players of the Month, the league announced ( via Twitter ). Oof. Next: 14. Check your inbox for your latest news from us. Jokic, the Western Conference's winner for the . Shaq said From this day on, I want to be known as The Big Aristotle, because Aristotle once said excellence is not a singular act, its a habit. The Captain was always a dumb name for Kareem. As the holder of multiple advanced degrees, I know how much work it can be. O'Neal also appeared on television on Saturday Night Live (he was initially picked to host the second episode of season 24 in 1998, but had to back down due to scheduling conflicts, being replaced by Kelsey Grammer; however, he did appear in two sketches during the episode) and in 2007 hosted Shaq's Big Challenge, a reality show on ABC in which he challenged Florida kids to lose weight and stay in shape. [72], Despite being hobbled by a deep thigh bruise, O'Neal led the Heat to the Eastern Conference Finals and a Game 7 against the defending champion Detroit Pistons, losing by a narrow margin. This one should probably rank even lower. They might use them to refer to each other, or even just to their friends. O'Neal was looking to expand his business ventures with real-estate development projects aimed at assisting Orlando home owners facing foreclosure. It is overused and often done poorly. Charles Barkley, Shaquille O'Neal, and the Inside the NBA crew are known for making jokes about themselves and current players, and Barkley just gained a new joke nickname. I am going to say Shaq called himself this because of his great quotes. Pete Maravich, in case you dont know, is the highest scorer in college basketball history. He averaged 26.6 points and 11 rebounds per game, made the All-NBA 3rd Team, and played in his 4th All-Star Game. Shaq got this nickname in his 18th season when he went to play for the Cleveland Cavaliers. Shaq Fu He nicknamed Tim Duncan, The Big Fundamental for his sound fundamentals. He also had a voice over role in the 2013 film The Smurfs 2. I'm actually on a team again." Shaquille O'Neal conducted the Boston Pops Orchestra at the Boston Symphony Hall on December 20, 2010. [161][162][163] During the 2002 victory parade, O'Neal declared that Sacramento would never be the capital of California,[164] after the Lakers beat the Kings in a tough seven-game series en route to its third championship with O'Neal. Diesel was engaged to "Hoopz," who is known from her appearance on the classic VH1 television programThe Flavor of Love. This one is kind of funny but my inability to pronounce it quickly has it ranked lower than it probably should have ranked. O'Neal also started DJing in the 1980s at LSU. Magic coach Stan Van Gundy, who had coached O'Neal with the Heat, was "very disappointed cause [O'Neal] knows what it's like. I just want to play the game, drink Pepsi, wear Reebok. [295], In April 2014, O'Neal posted a photo on Instagram that showed himself mocking Jahmel Binion who suffers from Ectodermal dysplasia. What's the difference? [118] Privately, he wanted to start, but kept it to himself. I write about games, players and seasons from the past. After O'Neal and his wife went into a restaurant, Ashton Kutcher's crew members let the air out of O'Neal's tires. They might use them to refer to each other, or even just to their friends. Shaq Daddy In November 2022, FTX filed for bankruptcy, wiping out billions of dollars in customer funds as well as O'Neal's personal stake in the company. Below I have ranked all 34 from best to worst. In his prime, Shaq wasthe rib of the leaguethe lean and meanface of the NBA. His career three-point-shot record is 1 for 22 (a 4.5% career percentage). King Kobe 12. O'Neal had been made an "honorary deputy" by the local sheriff's department. [24] O'Neal's tendency to make hook shots earned comparisons to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, inspiring him to wear the same jersey number as Abdul-Jabbar, No. Makes perfect sense. Shaquille O'Neal is among a host of NBA free agents who could vanish from their teams", "Magic are proof that wounds from star's departure do heal", "NBA Lakers Sign O'Neal Raise Ticket Prices", "Shaq signs multi-million contract with LA Lakers", "Sports of The Times;Shaq Is Now California Dreamin', "Sports Products Deal For Shaquille O'Neal", "1996-97 Los Angeles Lakers Roster and Stats", "O'Neal wanted to pack more offensive punch", "Jackson shares thoughts on final season", "Los Angeles Lakers at Los Angeles Clippers Box Score, March 6, 2000", "NBA Players with 60% 2b Points in a Game With%3d0 3pm", "Phil Jackson's tenure produced the most success and fun we've ever seen", "Sports of The Times; N.B.A. 32 before college. O'Neal told a reporter, "you tell Yao Ming, ching chong yang, wah, ah so. The Big Shamrock -- Shaq adopted "The Big Shamrock" during his short time in Boston. Shaquille O'Neal Basketball, Winning, Persons 33 Copy quote I am Superman. "You've got to love this as a big guy," O'Neal said while breaking . [113] O'Neal wanted the larger mid-level exception contract, but the Celtics chose instead to give it to Jermaine O'Neal. Total games played: 1207 (44th) O'Neal played in the NBA from 1992 until 2011, marking one of the longest and most storied careers in league history. Here are some examples of short and simple nicknames for Shaq: Now that youve selected a few nicknames for Shaq ideas, its time to gather some feedback. You'll see what I mean. Whether it be Superman, Diesel, Shaq Daddy, The Big Baryshnikov, The Big Aristotle, Wilt Chamberneezy, The Big Shamrock, or even Shaq Fu, O'Neal has made a name for himself with all these nicknames. Shaquille O'Neal Basketball, Pennies, Steps 51 Copy quote Man, I don't wanna do what all the other guys do. "The Big Shamrock" was thought up by Shaqthe NBA's resident entertainer for years. Darling also alleged that O'Neal had used law enforcement contacts to obtain restricted information on those mistresses, and that O'Neal subsequently threw his laptop into a lake to destroy possible evidence. Allegedly, Shaq gave it to himself in recognition for his great ability to give good interviews. He was the big man on the basketball court like Mayor McCheese was the head honcho at McDonalds. The Boston Pops perform a holiday concert every winter. The other players on the team look to this player to run things and keep things under control. Riley felt O'Neal was wrong for maligning his former teammates. Yes, this nickname as well"Shaq Diesel"has its roots in 1990s hip-hop "slanguage." And it has a funny story behind it. He believes he is the last true NBA center in the league today. If you were a headline writer would you rather call him Superman or the Big Aristotle? Shaq said he is not going to call another grown man by that name . As a bigtime Boston Celtics fan, I really ought to have ranked this one higher. Despite this, the Rockets, led by future Hall-of-Famers Hakeem Olajuwon and Clyde Drexler, swept the series in four games.[35]. [188] Coach Phil Jackson let O'Neal miss a home game so he could attend graduation. Kidadl provides inspiration to entertain and educate your children. But, seriously, enough with the Big X. I am now going to ignore the fact that half these nicknames are The Big X. Afterwards, O'Neal and others criticized Heat head coach Stan Van Gundy for not calling enough plays for O'Neal. One of the reasons for the trade was to limit Tim Duncan in the event of a postseason matchup between the Suns and the San Antonio Spurs, especially after the Suns' six-game elimination by the Spurs in the 2007 NBA Playoffs. He accomplished more than most NBA players can dream of in his 19-year career with the Orlando Magic, Los Angeles Lakers, Miami Heat, Phoenix Suns, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Boston Celtics. [246] In September 2012, O'Neal made a guest appearance on Total Nonstop Action Wrestling's Impact Wrestling program, where he had a backstage segment with Hulk Hogan. Upon hearing Bryant comment that he had more rings than O'Neal, Wyc Grousbeck, principal owner of the Celtics, saw an opportunity to acquire O'Neal. The cookie settings on this website are set to "allow cookies" to give you the best browsing experience possible. I mean, how to get their moneytheir cakeso they won't end up broke. [229][230], O'Neal starred in a reality show called Shaq Vs. which premiered on August 18, 2009, on ABC. [190][194] O'Neal received his Ed.D. After the 20012002 season, O'Neal told friends that he did not want another season of limping and being in virtually constant pain from his big right toe. [114] The Atlanta Hawks and the Dallas Mavericks also expressed interest but had stalled on O'Neal's salary demands. She is lovely. [11] He was elected to the FIBA Hall of Fame in 2017. The racial quote from his song was "it's like a white boy trying to be more nigga than me."[176]. They make fun of each other at every opportunity, but both have respect like brothers. Shaquille O'neal 1993-1994 Fleer Ultra Famous Nicknames PSA 9 Mint MAGIC LAKERS. [318][319], O'Neal began dating Laticia Rolle, a model, originally from Gardner, Massachusetts, in early 2014. I didn't even play on a team. [202], In September 2006, O'Neal took part in a raid on a home in rural Bedford County, Virginia. [142], O'Neal's "drop step", (called the "Black Tornado" by O'Neal) in which he posted up a defender, turned around and, using his elbows for leverage, powered past him for a very high-percentage slam dunk, proved an effective offensive weapon. He led his team to a 681 record over two years and helped the team win the state championship during his senior year. Shaq could be his own industry in the wake ofthe 19-year run he pulled offin the NBA. Bad luck still haunted the squad, however, as Wade dislocated his left shoulder, leaving O'Neal as the focus of the team. Cole High School in San Antonio, Texas. O'Neal's imposing physical presence inside the paint caused dramatic changes in many teams' offensive and defensive strategies. [201] Shortly thereafter, in Miami, O'Neal witnessed a hate crime (assaulting a man while calling out homophobic slurs) and called Miami-Dade police, describing the suspect and helping police, over his cell phone, track the offender. It's most definitely time to go. 1" review, "Shaq finally gets revenge on Aaron Carter", "Shaq is back and turning the tables on his music career", "Shaquille O'Neal Joins Impressive Lineup at the 2021 Formula 1 U.S. Grand Prix", "Here are the EDC Las Vegas 2021 Stage-by-Stage Lineups", "DJ DIESEL (@djdiesel) * Instagram photos and videos", Questions For Shaquille O'Neal Hoop Dreams Interview, Educational Doctorate (Ed.D.) The 2nd Golden Age began when Hakeem Olajuwon, Patrick Ewing, and David Robinson faced off regularly in the league. "[174] Although even other exponents of hip hop, such as Snoop Dogg, Nas and Cory Gunz, agreed with O'Neal,[175] Maricopa County, Arizona Sheriff Joe Arpaio expressed his intention to relieve O'Neal of his Maricopa County sheriff posse badge, due to "use of a racially derogatory word and other foul language". [241], A lifelong professional wrestling fan, O'Neal has made numerous appearances at televised events over the years for four different promotions. The boring The Big X structure and a terrible story revolving around promoting some company. [30] During his rookie season, O'Neal averaged 23.4 points on 56.2% shooting, 13.9 rebounds, and 3.5 blocks per game for the season. The Shaq Fu is mesmerized by the 'Greek Freak' Giant Antetokounmpo's dominance inside the paint, taking the ball to the hole, throwing it down without any flip shots reminded everyone and O'Neal himself when young. This version of the Big X comes from Shaqs single season in Boston. The Prophecy 21. [157] When he did not want to speak with the press, he employed an interview technique whereby, sitting in front of his cubicle, he would murmur in his low-pitched voice. [298], O'Neal was raised by a Baptist mother and a Muslim stepfather. Halloween Special", 2 Episodes as guest, Guest Host October 30, 2017, 2012 Outstanding Promotional Announcement, 2022 Short Subject Documentary (as an executive producer of, Career statistics and player information from, This page was last edited on 1 March 2023, at 05:45. I don't wanna be known as Commentator Shaq. Later, in 2018, Shaq Fu: The Return was released for Play Station and Xbox. I had Phil. Lord of the Rings 24. And the only thing that can kill Superman is Kryptonite. ", "All-Time #NBArank: Shaq comes in at No. They bodies don't look the same. That is what MCs do. A couple of years ago on Inside the NBA the crew got into a bit of a heated debateabout gas. [268] He has also been an active real estate entrepreneur. While he led the Dream Team II to the gold medal with an 80 record, O'Neal averaged 18 points and 8.5 rebounds and recorded two double-doubles. Cool Shaq Nicknames. Sack Daddy, Sack-a-shaq are nicknames for Shaq Lawson. His achievement made him choose a lot of nicknames for himself. I have been a Boston sports fan for more than forty years. The follow up, 1994's Shaq Fu: The Return, went gold. With the tandem of O'Neal and teenage superstar Kobe Bryant, expectations for the Lakers increased; however, personnel changes were a source of instability during the 199899 season. Subscribe for virtual tools, STEM-inspired play, creative tips and more. He didn't bring the luck of the Irish to the Celtics, but he was the biggest leprechaun in NBA history. [210] O'Neal appeared as Officer Fluzoo in the comedy sequel Grown Ups 2. [166] Yao joked, "Chinese is hard to learn. "ShaqDonald's" Creator: 9th Wonder (Grammy Award-winning hip-hop producer) Dime. Player/Athlete: Alonzo Mourning, Anfernee Hardaway, Charles Barkley, Clyde Drexler, David Robinson, Derrick Coleman, Dominique Wilkins . Shaquille O' Neal has arguably been the best media personality in the entire NBA for around a decade now. More at IMDbPro Contact info Agent info Resume Add to list Awards 2 wins & 6 nominations Photos 139 Known for Steel 2.9 John Henry Irons 1997 During the game, O'Neal flopped against Howard. They include some great names like The Big Aristotle and some less-great names like Witness Protection. Bill Russellaccording to Russellthinks the world of big Shaq. O'Neal is also the global spokesperson for the company. L.C.L. In September 2016, O'Neal said: "When I was in Cleveland, we were in first place. O'Neal was already wary of the long-term damage his frequent consumption of these medications might have. Other companies and products for which he has appeared in commercials include Reebok, Nestl Crunch, Gold Bond, Buick, The General, Papa John's, Hulu, Epson, and IcyHot, among others. [64] The Lakers started the season with a record of 1119. ardagh metal beverage; over stemming and under stemming example; school of arts and sciences rutgers; nassau guardian obituaries 2021; selfie station miami aventura mall [25] O'Neal was named the Player of the Week in his first week in the NBA, the first player to do so. [269], O'Neal is an investor for esports team NRG Esports. Later, during his short stent with Boston, he used "The Big Shamrock." My favorite during his time in Phoenix, however, was "Shaqtus". An alter ego inspired by 'Kill Bill'. MDE suffers from the same problems as a nickname as the last entry on this list: L.C.L. Michael Jordans Prime: The Greatest of All Time, Who has the most rings in the NBA? [23] His 791 rebounds during the 1989 season remains a state record for a player in any classification. I'd rat on anybody I knew ifShaq bought me a ring that big. That's why I'm getting a divorce." Shaq played for the Celtics in his nineteenth and final NBA season. The Big Blank formula is used for many of ONeals nicknames. O'Neal made his 12th consecutive All-Star Team, made the All-NBA 1st Team, and won the Eastern Conference Player of the Month award for his performance in March. Copyright 2023 Rumble. At the same time, I have already written two articles about Shaquille ONeal and, in both, I called the man Shaq. In other words, had Shaq, with just four years and one completed contract under his belt, been a free agent in this year's class, or in 1994, or 1998, or 1999, or 2000, or at any other time in . M.D.E. They often invite local celebrities to lead the orchestra for a song as a form of promotion. At Jonathan Burke's Gracie Gym, he trained in boxing, jiu-jitsu, Muay Thai and wrestling. Shaquille O'Neal gets his cake, and he eats it, too. [199], O'Neal maintained a high level of interest in the workings of police departments and became personally involved in law enforcement. Although O'Neal averaged career lows (or near-lows) in points, rebounds, and blocks, he said in an interview "Stats don't matter. Shaqir O'Neal is next, and the Class of 2021 baller was another national prospect. access_time23 junio, 2022. person. As a pro rapper, he's not as lyrical as some of the other microphone checkers, but he could hold his own. It stands for Most Dominant Ever. This lawyer wants him to pay up", "Shaq distances himself from crypto and FTX collapse: 'I was just a paid spokesperson', "Influencers beware: promoting the wrong crypto could mean facing a class-action lawsuit", "EXCLUSIVE: Shaquille O'Neal Accused Of Computer Hacking, Throwing Evidence In Lake, Says New Lawsuit | Radar Online", "Shaq Smacked With Kiddie Porn Frame-Up Lawsuit", "Shaq Hit With Lawsuit For Attempting to Plant Child Porn on Former Employee's Computer", "Shaq Sued by Former Employee for Allegedly Hacking Into Computer to Destroy Evidence of Affairs and Reputedly Attempting to Frame Employee for Possessing Kiddy Porn", "Former Employee Says Shaq Took Up Computer Hacking, Threw Evidence in a Lake", "SHAQUILLE O'NEAL, vs SHAWN DARLING AND MENACHEM MAYBERG", "Ex-NBA star Shaquille O'Neal, two others being sued by man with rare genetic disease who was mocked via social media", "Shaq Makes Fun Of Disabled Man YouTube", "Binion v. O'Neal, CASE NO. By age 16, O'Neal had grown to 6ft 10in (2.08m), and he began playing basketball at Robert G. Cole High School. Video: Shaq, NBA on TNT crew clown Charles Barkley's 15 nicknames. It was probably to promote something. His father and mother were 6ft 1in (1.85m) and 6ft 2in (1.88m) tall, respectively, and by age 13, O'Neal was already 6ft 6in (1.98m) tall. I know which way Id go. Its a nod to the history of the game. [17][18][19] O'Neal remained estranged from his biological father for decades; O'Neal had not spoken with Toney or expressed an interest in establishing a relationship. Supporters applauded O'Neal's willingness to take what amounted to a pay cut and the Heat's decision to secure O'Neal's services for the long term. [111] On August 4, 2010, the Celtics announced that they had signed O'Neal. But apparently, it was something Shaq wanted. [59] O'Neal was suspended for three games without pay and fined $15,000. [323] O'Neal became a Freemason in 2011, becoming a member of Widow's Son Lodge No. At 7ft 1in (2.16m), 330lb (150kg)[141] and U.S. shoe size 23,[63] he became famous for his physical stature. Sounds like I should say "bless you," but the Diesel's wealthhis cakeis nothing to sneeze at. I think I like this one better than the IPO name. [80][81] After one of those missed games, a Christmas Day match-up against the Lakers, he ripped Jackson, who O'Neal had once called a second father, referring to his former coach as "Benedict Arnold". He will have lunch with the students. Kaskade, DJ Diesel (Aka Shaquille O'Neal) Among The Headliners At This Year's Indy 500 Snake Pit Subtronics, John Summit, DJ Diesel (aka Shaquille O'Neal) and Jauz also will perform in the. The O'Neal is a passionate freestyle hip-hop rapper with the connotation Shaq Daddy or Puff Daddy. Grade: PSA 9. Checkout the latest stats for Shaquille Leonard. He can laugh at himself and knows how to have a good time. [300][301][302] However, O'Neal has said, "I'm Muslim, I'm Jewish, I'm Buddhist, I'm everybody 'cause I'm a people person. [110] Celtics coach Doc Rivers agreed to the signing on the condition that O'Neal would not receive preferential treatment, nor could he cause any locker room problems like in Los Angeles or Miami. There was no way ownership could give him what he wanted. "[76] During the 200506 season, the Heat recorded only a .500 record without O'Neal in the line-up. Miami advanced to face New Jersey, who won a surprising game 1 victory before the Heat won four straight to assure a rematch with Detroit. He once missed all 11 of his free throw attempts in a game against the Seattle SuperSonics on December 8, 2000, a record. However, it was the first season in O'Neal's career that his scoring average dropped below 20points per game. O'Neal's humorous and sometimes incendiary comments fueled the Los Angeles Lakers' long-standing rivalry with the Sacramento Kings; O'Neal frequently referred to the Sacramento team as the "Queens". Seriously, the Big Banana. [277] In January 2022, O'Neal sold his stake in the Kings. His physical frame gave him a power advantage over most opponents. At the same time, I cant minimize terrorism and dont want to joke too much about such a sensitive subject. O'Neal called himself "The Big Aristotle" and "Hobo Master" for his composure and insights during interviews. Copyright 2023 Sports Nostalgia HQ | Powered by Astra WordPress Theme, By continuing to use the site, you agree to the use of cookies. In July 2017, O'Neal released a diss track aimed at LaVar Ball, the father of NBA point guard Lonzo Ball. 3 center ever. They include some great names like The Big Aristotle and some less-great names like Witness Protection. Nice try. His crossover dribble was the best ever displayed by an NBA center. "[311], In 2015, Shareef was seen in high school basketball highlights as a 6-foot-7-inch (2.01m) freshman power forward, and had been described to have "polar opposite playing style to his father" due to his more athletic build and better shooting range. The Cobra 15. Shaq is the person of nicknames, for he is the best player of his time in NBA history. is an abbreviated nickname Shaq gave himself. Alas, the Cavs lost to the Boston Celtics in the 2nd round of the playoffs and Shaq moved to Boston himself the next year. They allow us to quickly communicate our thoughts and feelings to others. Your login session has expired. Aside frombeing seen with someglorified hood rats, he's done well in life,but he'llcontinue to be associated withthat uglywordrat. He also taunted Bryant for not being able to win a championship without him. O'Neal reverted from (his Lakers jersey) number 34 to number 32, which he had worn while playing for the Magic. We're even preparing a big match between Chu Sung Hoon and Shaquille O'Neal. It has nothing to do with the fact that I am a huge Celtics fan stop saying that. I was trying to take the charge, trying to get a call. Karl Malone 4,761 **Shaquille O'Neal was one of the most efficient players in NBA history: Highest Player Efficiency Rating (NBA History) Michael Jordan 27.9. I have no idea when or why Shaq gave himself this nickname. Shaq Lawson played 15 games last season and 93 games over his career. [146] In hope of exploiting O'Neal's poor foul shooting, opponents often committed intentional fouls against him, a tactic known as "Hack-a-Shaq". If it played on the Big Cactus and the Big Shaqtus, at least it rhymed. Retiring in 2011, Shaq has continued to be involved in a great many fields. [69] After the series, O'Neal was angered by comments made by Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak regarding O'Neal's future with the club, as well as by the departure of Lakers coach Phil Jackson at the request of Buss. We have seen in a lot of places that short and simple nicknames are liked by people a lot. is saying oh my goodness a sin in islam. For other uses, see, First scoring title and NBA Finals (19941996), Career lows and disagreements (20072008), Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, All-Star Legends & Celebrity Softball Game, S. I. Newhouse School of Public Communications, List of career achievements by Shaquille O'Neal, Shaquille O'Neal Presents His Superfriends, Vol. [173] O'Neal justified his act by saying "I was freestyling. In 2021, the litigation ended with a court ruling that O'Neal was entitled to $412,914.50 in legal fees. He was not yet done collecting nicknames. Thunder-hacking dunksShaq has thembut he can also dance in the lane and on stage. The Big Cordially. The Lakers finished with a 3119 record during the lockout-shortened season. You can use these nicknames anywhere you want for free. Look at the rock on her finger. [130][131] On a short video on Twitter, O'Neal tweeted, "We did it. [144], O'Neal's primary weakness was his free throw shooting, with a career average of 52.7%. [78], In the 2006 NBA Playoffs, the Heat first faced the younger Chicago Bulls, and O'Neal delivered a dominating 27 point, 16 rebound and 5 blocks performance in game 1 followed by a 22-point effort in game 2 to help Miami take a 20 lead in the series. The ability to dunk contributed to his career field goal accuracy of .582, second only to Artis Gilmore as the highest field goal percentage of all time. The show features various celebrities attending a selected high school as students for three days. Jackson immediately challenged O'Neal, telling him "the [NBA's] MVP trophy should be named after him when he retired. You can see why Shaq thought this was a good name for him. They freestyle when called upon. He played way too passively. 10. O'Neal is also an electronic music producer, and touring DJ, known as DIESEL. This Big Cactus has many nicknames that reflect his personality. Your privacy is important to us. [168], During the 2005 NBA playoffs, O'Neal compared his poor play to Erick Dampier,[169] a Dallas Mavericks center who had failed to score a single point in one of their recent games. Standing for Last Center Left, ONeal considered himself well above his peers at the five position. Im in the protection business. Thus the name: Witness Protection. Wednesday night on NBA TV,Barkley called him the No. [184][185][186], O'Neal left LSU for the NBA after three years. He quickly became one of the best centers in the league, winning Rookie of the Year in 199293 and leading his team to the 1995 NBA Finals.