This season’s Rookie of the Year award has become a 2-man race essentially. Unsurprisingly, they are Victor Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren, two bona fide unicorns. However, both have vastly different cases for the mantle top. While Chet can drive his push based on team success and stats, Wemby has to settle for statistics alone. For Shaquille O’Neal, though, he is finally understanding the hype behind Wembanyama.

“It’s a single award. We have this same conversation every year, every MVP voting. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander better be in the MVP talks. But, it has to go to Victor. Team-wise, of course, Chet’s playing on a great team, the Spurs are not a great team. But, individually, slight edge to Victor.”

However, it was Kenny “The Jet” Smith who would drive the final nail in the argument’s coffin. “Let me ask you this. If you put Wembanyama on OKC, are they better?” The answer was immediate and emphatic, “Of course.” 

But, in a rare show of a united front, Charles Barkley would also side with the Frenchmen in this debate. “I like Chet…I think they’re better because he’s playing with better players.” Even though Barkley isn’t fully on board with the Oklahoma City Thunder’s success this season, even less than with the Minnesota Timberwolves, he does think they are better than the San Antonio Spurs.

However, the key takeaway here might be that the legends have come around on the rookies. And there isn’t any more Bol Bol talk.

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Shaquille O’Neal and his fascination with Bol Bol

During the illustrious 2019 NBA Draft, while the focus was on Zion Williamson and Ja Morant, Shaq had made his bed with the son of NBA legend, Manute Bol. Due to his dribbling skills and shooting potential, the 4x NBA Champion had him as his pick for the best career from the draft.

Since then, the 7-footer has not given up on his choice. When the hype for Victor was peaking, O’Neal would try to include Bol in the same discussion. While he’s finding his footing with the Phoenix Suns, the difference is stark in contrast, even though other legends might be joining the Bol bandwagon…the Bolwagon?

At least, Diesel is finally seeing the error of his ways. Now if only he could also see light on the SGA and Luka Doncic discussions. Who do you have as the pick for Rookie of the Year? Let us know in the comments below.

Read More: Shaquille O’Neal Hates NBA Media’s “Sh*t” Gimmick; Goes on a Minute-Long Rant Against Chet Holmgren and Victor Wembanyama