It is almost impossible to overstate how dominant Shaquille O’Neal was. He overpowered everyone, bent defenses, and collected rings in the process. And now, he’s as comfortable as anyone in letting new stars join that rarefied air.
Shaq has heard the Giannis Antetokounmpo comparisons for years. Another freak athlete who overwhelms opponents with brute force and strength. This time, Shaq didn’t dodge the comparison. Asked about it, he admitted that prime Giannis outshines him.
“We’re different players, but I’d probably have to say Giannis. The game has evolved since I played, and that’s what you want — you want evolution in the game,” Shaq said.
Shaq says prime Giannis is better than him 👀
(🎥 @bigpodwithshaq / https://t.co/6Iz7dS6kIm) pic.twitter.com/FFx4W4Sgiq
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) October 29, 2025
Shaq isn’t always generous with praise for today’s stars. More often, he’s critical. But this time, he surprised everyone by tipping his cap to Giannis, even though the Milwaukee Bucks superstar hasn’t matched his own list of accomplishments.
But to be fair, Giannis is posting 36.3 points, 14.0 rebounds, and 7.0 assists per game on 69.5% shooting from the field to start the season. It may be early, but when you watch him bully his opponents and put up numbers like that, it makes sense why Shaq would give him the nod.
