How can we leave the Big Diesel out of the conversation about the Slam Dunk? Ahead of the All-Star Saturday night, the ‘Inside the NBA’ crew asked Shaquille O’Neal, considered one of the most powerful dunkers of all time, some interesting questions. But one of his answers started a mini battle between him and Charles Barkley. 

The 2024 dunk contest featured some of the most powerful dunkers in the game right now—Jaylen Brown, Jaime Jaquez Jr., Jacob Toppin, and defending champion Mac McClung. But are any of them even close to Shaq’s power? The Los Angeles Lakers legend was asked a simple direct question by Ernie Johnson. “Would you consider yourself to be the most powerful dunker of all time?” 

The 2000 MVP instantly answered, “Of course, with no hesitation.” He had a few other names such as Darryl Dawkins, Vince Carter, and Shawn Kemp, but he believes he is the best. Barkley only tried to give the tag to Dawkins by recalling the broken backboards. 

But Kenny Smith had Shaq’s back. He chimed in, “He[Shaq] broke backboards too.” Barkley did not have an answer for that. The Sixers legend tried to give the honorable tag only to Dawkins, but Shaq alone has broken 12 backboards unofficially in his basketball career. Also, two of them were during his days in Orlando. There might be more that we don’t know of.  

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But at the same time, Dawkins has an incredible dunk resume, which also brings up the question of whether he is equal to Shaq or better. 

Darryl Dawkins’ backboard-breaking spree for three weeks 

Back in the 70s, rims were not too strong to withstand the power of dunking. It could only sustain to an extent. However, Dawkins couldn’t control his power. In 1979 alone, he broke two backboards in a span of three weeks. Soon after this, the NBA brought in the concept of breakaway rims. This is how powerful Dawkins was. 

The Philadelphia 76ers center was crowned as the most powerful dunker in the NBA by the fans. Later, Shaq entered the league and equaled Dawkins’ record. They both are tied now, so the crown must be shared.  

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However, we would like to know who you would choose from the above two. Darryl Dawkins or Shaquille O’Neal? Share your take in the comments below. 

Read more: 3 Decades After Shaquille O’Neal’s Unique Record Forced NBA to Change Rules, Fans Chuckle at 7’2 Giant’s Fear Making People Run “For Their Lives”