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Shaquille O’Neal Admits Why He Never Won A Ring With Magic While Ranting About People Not Taking His Advice

Published 07/21/2022, 9:30 PM EDT

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When the NBA world hears dominance, Shaquille O’Neal will probably be the player that comes to mind. The Lakers legend was a one-man wrecking crew since the day he came into the league in 1992. As one of the best players of all time, the Big Diesel’s list of accolades is long. However, the one that will always stand out is him being a four-time champion. It is a true testament to his winning mentality. But during one of his podcasts, Shaq admitted he could have had another ring with the Magic. But he didn’t have the knowledge in his young days.

After hanging up the sneakers, Shaq turned into an analyst for TNT. And the Big Aristotle isn’t afraid to make his case. He has no filter and speaks what comes to his mind. Bringing in his G-14 classification, Shaq has taken some shots at Jazz’s All-Star, Donovan Mitchell. His constructive criticism didn’t sit well with the NBA fans and a lot of backlash came toward the Lakers legend.

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His co-host, Spice Adams, called out the Hall of Famer for slandering. However, Shaq believes he is only trying to help. During his rant about players ignoring his advice, the big man revealed why he never won a championship with the Orlando Magic.

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Shaquille O’Neal lacked the basketball knowledge

The Orlando Magic has one of the best histories in terms of centers. Out of all, Shaq is probably the most iconic. Ever since donning the Magic jersey as a rookie, O’Neal became a problem for the opposition. He was shattering backboards and dunking over everybody. In just his third year, the Big Diesel won his first scoring title. However, his run with Orlando never gave him a championship. And Shaq believes it’s because he didn’t have the knowledge of being great back then.

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While speaking about trying to help his NBA “Brothers,” Shaq spoke about his 4 championships. In addition, the Big Diesel revealed what kept him from getting one with Penny Hardaway in Orlando. He said: “Remember, I can say what I say, brother. How many rings do I have? 4 brother. three in LA, one in Miami brother. I should have got one in Orlando, but I didn’t have great knowledge of my basketball self to get there. Now that I have the knowledge, I am giving you the knowledge brother.”

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Even though Shaquille O’Neal was ready for the NBA, he had to grow into his winning mentality. At the age of 21, Shaq’s main motive was to win. He was always great, but the 4 time NBA champ had to lose to learn how to go all the way. It wasn’t until 7 years in the league that Shaq felt the immense hunger to win. And that was all it took to unleash the beast. He put the Lakers on his back and led the way for one of the most unstoppable dynasties in the history of the NBA.

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The Hall of Famer may be harsh with his criticism, but Shaq speaks from a good place. Being a 19-season veteran, the Big Diesel knows a thing or two. And at the end of the day, he only wants players like Donovan Mitchell to become their best version. Do you think Shaq could have won in Orlando if he stayed longer? Let us know in the comments below.

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Written by:

Anuj Talwalkar

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Anuj Talwalkar is an NBA writer at EssentiallySports. He is a student studying at NM College in Mumbai, aspiring to pursue sports management to follow his love for sports. Anuj started following the NBA last year, and he loves to combine his passion for writing with his understanding of basketball.
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Edited by:

Tony Thomas