Shaquille O’Neal, the larger-than-life NBA legend, recently revealed his picks for the most entertaining basketball players in NBA history during an episode of The Big Podcast. When asked by his co-host Adam Lefkoe to name the top five players, Shaq surprised everyone by only listing four names.
Shaquille O’Neal Top Pick for Most Entertaining NBA Player
To kick off his list, Shaq gave credit to a player he believes doesn’t receive enough recognition: Dr. J, also known as Julius Erving. According to O’Neal, Dr. J was the first to bring a certain flair and showmanship to the game, making him an entertaining player to watch. His high-flying dunks and acrobatic moves captivated audiences and inspired a young Shaq to pursue basketball.
Shaq then moved on to Magic Johnson, who he believes brought a different type of excitement to the court. Magic’s style of play and his ability to make breathtaking passes and flashy plays added an element of awe and wonder to the game.
No list of entertaining players would be complete without mentioning Michael Jordan. Shaq acknowledged Jordan’s impact, describing him as the player who brought the “ooh” factor to the game. Jordan’s incredible athleticism, clutch performances, and highlight-reel dunks made him a must-watch player throughout his career.
The final player on Shaq’s list was none other than Stephen Curry. Known for his exceptional shooting skills and ability to drain shots from anywhere on the court, Curry revolutionized the game with his long-range shooting. According to Shaq, Curry is the best shooter in NBA history, and his ability to make seemingly impossible shots adds an element of excitement to every game he plays.
Interestingly, Shaq stopped at four players, admitting that he was unsure of who to choose for the fifth spot. This shows that even for someone as knowledgeable and passionate about the game as Shaq, selecting the most entertaining players is no easy task.
In discussing his first pick, Dr. J, Shaq revealed the personal impact that Erving had on his own basketball journey. Recounting a childhood memory, Shaq shared how receiving an autographed Dr. J ball as a Christmas present from his father and attending a Knicks game where Erving played on the opposing team motivated him to pursue a career in the NBA. Witnessing the crowd’s excitement and the admiration Dr. J commanded on the court, Shaq knew he wanted to experience that feeling and have people scream his name.
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Shaq’s list of the most entertaining basketball players in NBA history showcases his appreciation for players who brought a unique style and energy to the game. From Dr. J’s showmanship to Magic’s playmaking, Jordan’s dominance, and Curry’s shooting prowess, these players have left an indelible mark on the sport and continue to captivate fans around the world.
