When one talks about the greatest players to play in the NBA, Shaquille O’Neal simply cannot be ignored. Moreover, he had the privilege of being mentored by someone as great as Magic Johnson while he was young.
Watch What’s Trending Now!
Talking on The Big Podcast with Shaq, the former Los Angeles Lakers center, talked about his inspirations. However, the list contained a rather interesting name. It was Chris Rock. The comedian went viral following the incident with Will Smith during the Oscars.
WATCH THIS STORY: Shaquille ONeal vs Magic Johnsons net worth: Is the gentle giant richer than his idol?
Shaquille O’Neal names an unlikely source of inspiration
Winning an NBA title is no joke, and Shaquille O’Neal has 4! Furthermore, he boasts of a glittering trophy cabinet comprising awards like the MVP award, 3 Finals MVP awards and also the Rookie of the Year award.
When one takes inspiration from the likes of Michael Jordan and Magic Johnson, a winning mentality is instilled within them. The same applies to Shaq.
Talking on The Big Podcast with Shaq, he talked about the people who inspired him. Interestingly enough, the list also contains the name of a certain comedian who is making all the headlines around the world.
It is none other than Chris Rock. Shaq said, “That’s the reason why I try to be smooth like Dr J, I try to smile all the time like Magic Johnson, I try to be super focused and dominant like Michael Jordan and I try to be silly like Chris Rock. I’m a combination of different people. People that inspire me.”
Getty
NEW YORK, NY – DECEMBER 06: Shaquille O’Neal appears to promote “Toys for Tots” during the AOL BUILD Series at AOL HQ on December 6, 2016 in New York City. (Photo by Donna Ward/Getty Images)
Although Shaq is inspired by Jordan and Magic, he never misses a chance to call them out. After the Los Angeles Lakers‘ humiliating playoffs exit this season, Shaq bashed Magic for blaming LeBron James.
All of this started when Magic bashed LeBron for choosing Russell Westbrook in place of DeMar DeRozan. Shaq was not one to keep quiet as he let his thoughts out.
Getty
LOS ANGELES, CA – APRIL 06: Los Angeles Lakers Ervin Magic Johnson applaudes as Shaquile O’Neal shakes hands with Hall of Famer Elgin Baylor during the unveiling ceremony for the bronze statue to honor Baylor in Star Plaza at Staples Center on April 6, 2018 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jayne Kamin-Oncea/Getty Images)
He said, “ I don’t think Magic should come and say haahaahaa cause it don’t matter. When Magic was in-charge, Magic did the shit the way he wanted to do, and that’s who we all got it from, him.” Although O’Neal took direct shots at Johnson, it seems the Lakers legend is not in the mood to fight with his apprentice.
Written by
Edited by
Ajinkya Aswale