Much like any other major sport, the quest for the GOAT of basketball is ever-present. Even though comparing players from different generations doesn’t always make sense, fans, analysts, and even players are open to debate. Over the years, many names have joined and left the GOAT conversation. Michael Jordan came to the fore in the ’90s and has maintained his position at the top of the pyramid. LeBron James has become a mainstay as well, and it has become kind of a two-horse race. But did Shaquille O’Neal miss his seat at the table because of his pride?

Make no mistake, O’Neal is arguably the most dominant player ever. He did not want to be the greatest in the history of the NBA. Shaq always dreamt of being the most dominant ever, and he achieved it. However, he had all the tools necessary to be in the GOAT conversation.

Shaquille O’Neal could’ve been higher up the list

Michael Jordan and LeBron James are in the GOAT conversation for different reasons. Jordan is in because of his six titles, five MVPs, perfect Finals record, etc. On the other hand, James has four rings and four MVPs so far. However, it is his ability to lead an average side to the Finals that is lauded by many. Furthermore, he recently surpassed NBA legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar as the all-time leading scorer. This cemented his name as one of the greatest players ever.

Similar to LeBron, Shaquille O’Neal also has four championships. However, he has only one MVP award. In terms of scoring, O’Neal sits 8th in the scoring charts for regular season and playoffs combined as per ESPN. However, he could have been much higher and be in the debate had his free throw numbers been a tad bit higher.

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Notably, Shaq’s free throw percentage is 52.7%, which led to his opponents applying the Hack-a-Shaq tactic. It was the only possible way to slow down the unstoppable Big Diesel, and it worked. Recently, a fan account on X dived into O’Neal’s troubles. The post noted that the superstar’s coaches begged him to shoot his free throws underarm like Rick Barry, who averaged 90% from the line. However, O’Neal was not a fan of the routine and declined.

Even if the Los Angeles Lakers legend made the league average of 78% of his attempts from the charity stripe, he would have been 6th in the list behind Jordan at 5th. Furthermore, teams would think twice before hacking him every time and his points per game could have improved as well. This would have put him in the GOAT debate alongside MJ and LeBron.

Shaquille O’Neal’s pride

Shaquille O’Neal once opened up about his reluctance to follow NBA legend Rick Barry’s underarm free throw routine. The former center stated that it was “boring” when asked about it. The Hall of Famer argued that there was no proof that the style would work for everyone.

Furthermore, he did not think that the style looked good. He even said that to Barry himself. According to a report by NBC Sports, O’Neal said, “I told Rick Barry I’d rather shoot 0% than shoot underhand. I’m too cool for that.”

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Even though Shaq was playful with his statement, it looks like there is some truth to it. So there is a possibility that his pride cost him a shot at the GOAT title.