The storied Los Angeles Lakers franchise has seen its share of iconic players who’ve left indelible marks on the NBA landscape. From Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to Magic Johnson, Shaquille O’Neal, and more recently, LeBron James, the Lakers have been home to numerous legendary athletes.
Shaquille O’Neal, a behemoth of a player known for his sheer power and dominance, was one such figure, leading the team during his prime in the early 2000s. However, the evergreen LeBron James has continued to rewrite history and break records, even at the age of 38, leading to some interesting commentary from the retired O’Neal.
What did Shaquille O’Neal say about LeBron James’ all-time leading scorer record?
In a recent episode of the “I Am Athlete” podcast, O’Neal candidly shared his feelings on LeBron James surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar as the NBA’s all-time leading career scorer. Shaq admitted to feeling a sense of professional jealousy, wishing he had achieved the record instead. “I say it all the time. It was professional jealousy at that moment. I wish that was me. I know what I would have done. ‘Me, I’m the greatest,'” O’Neal said.
While both players boast impressive physical attributes, their careers have followed different trajectories. Shaq’s peak was relatively short-lived, with his prowess declining in his early 30s.
In stark contrast, LeBron has managed to maintain an elite level of play well into his late 30s, consistently smashing records and setting new milestones.
The Lakers organization has been fortunate to have both players on their roster, each bringing their unique talents and strengths. Shaq’s time with the Lakers was marked by unbridled dominance and a powerful presence on the court, while LeBron’s tenure has been characterized by longevity, adaptability, and an almost ageless ability to perform at the highest level.
O’Neal’s career achievements are nothing to scoff at, with the 2000 league MVP amassing four NBA championships, three consecutive NBA Finals MVPs, and 28,596 points throughout his 19-year career. LeBron still has a long way to go in order to match Shaq’s accomplishments in purple and gold.
The exchange between Shaquille O’Neal and LeBron James highlights the competitive nature of professional sports, as well as the drive that pushes athletes to excel and leave their mark on history. While Shaq may have expressed a tinge of envy, his comments ultimately serve as a testament to the greatness of both players and their enduring impact on the NBA.
