Over the past few months, Shaquille O’Neal ended his beef with both Dwight Howard and Rudy Gobert. He did a podcast with Howard and will induct him into the Hall of Fame. For the French center, he praised him multiple times during the playoff display for the Timberwolves. Shaq’s shade, however, never ends. This time, the Wolves star is back in Shaq’s crosshairs as he crowns his overrated players on a podcast.

His beef with Gobert started when the Lakers legend called him the NBA’s worst all-time in September last year. It led to a proper response from Wolves star who questioned the antics on X “…still be triggered by another man’s finances and accomplishments… I get the entertainment part, but unlike other folks, you don’t need that stuff to stay relevant.” During the playoffs, O’Neal even dubbed him “Rudy Abdul-Gobert.” But now he is back to recalling the 32-year-old with a previous nickname.

“One current player you think is overrated, but you wouldn’t say it on TNT?” This was the question from host, Ashley Nevel. Since Shaquille O’Neal had a change of heart during the playoffs, and also he has called out Gobert many times, one thought his name would be different. But no, the two names on top for him remain the same. “I don’t think anybody’s like you talking about like a Rudy Gobert or Ben Simmons, like I would never say those names,” a sarcastic remark from Shaq.

Yet, the host did not clock it at first. “But no, just like people, I guess, like someone that everyone always rants and raves about, but you just don’t see it.” Shaq remained cheeky with his response as he called out Gobert and Simmons. “Are you talking about a Rudy Gobert or Ben Simmons? I would never say those names.” After this, she understood the remark and made it clear to Shaq that everyone understood what he was trying to portray. “Okay, you say it without saying it.”

But he is Shaquille O’Neal, he has to have the last laugh. He did so by once again talking (not talking) about Gobert and Simmons. “I didn’t say anything; I never said Rudy Gobert or Ben Simmons. Like you said, I wouldn’t say those names.” Even though now the 4x NBA champion thinks Gobert is overrated, just a few weeks ago, he was in awe.

Shaquille O’Neal hesitated to praise but did so on the broadcast

In game 5 against the small-ball Lakers, the domination from the French center was very evident. His  27 points and 24 boards were a true all-around performance. It also included shooting accuracy of 12-15, and two blocks to his name. Those numbers weren’t just career highs; they vaulted Gobert into elite company—he became just the fifth player since 1980 to post 27+ points and 24+ rebounds in a playoff game, joining Hakeem Olajuwon, Tim Duncan, Charles Barkley, and Shaquille O’Neal himself. The latter even made sure to put in a good word.

“I never thought I’d hear these words come out of my mouth.” However, proceeded to appreciate the 4x DPOY. “But Rudy Gobert is dominating, and I’m happy for him.” This was not all, “You’re 7’4”, you’re being aggressive — and now look: he’s scoring,” analyzed the Lakers legend. He even admitted not liking that he was praising somebody whom he had called the Worst player of all time. “And I hate to say it, Ernie, Kenny, Chuck… Rudy Gobert is dominating.” 

It all started with “I’m going to tell you why. Because if you sign a contract for ($)250 (million), show me 250,” Shaq felt Gobert’s efforts don’t really showcase on the stat sheet and don’t justify his contract. But now he has reached the Conference finals. Earlier, Shaq’s ex‑teammate, Udonis Haslem, said about Gobert, “Win a championship and shut us the f— up.” Maybe that’s what will be truly needed for the Wolves star to get off the overrated list of O’Neal.