It may be the NBA offseason, but that doesn’t mean we can’t still have heated discussions and controversial debates. Former Los Angeles Lakers legend Shaquille O’Neal certainly did with his latest comments.
In the latest episode of The Big Podcast with Shaq, the 15-time NBA All-Star revealed who he believes is the “best player in the world,” and it’s not LeBron James.
Shaq claims that Golden State Warriors star guard Stephen Curry is the best overall player in the world – not just the best shooter, citing his championships and his ability to make tough shots.
“Yeah, by far,” O’Neal said. “Hell yeah. Best player. As Kenny would tell you, you can have a category but the real ones are recognized by the championships that you have. Nobody plays better than Steph Curry. He’s a tough shot taker. Tough shot maker. I like where he’s brought his career.”
O’Neal goes on to explain that while he loves Curry for his basketball abilities, he also loves his underdog story.
“Let me tell you something, I love Rocky-type stories. Kenny was highly recruited coming out of New York. I was highly recruited. Steph wasn’t highly recruited. So to be able to work that hard and be the best shooter and one of the best players in the League, he gets my props for that. I love that kid.”
It’s certainly a bit of a controversial take with LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Kawhi Leonard, Anthony Davis, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Luca Doncic also playing in the league, but Shaq makes a compelling argument.