A Tribute to the Big Fella, Shaquille O'Neal

It's not often that the league witnesses a player like Shaquille O'neal.  A 7 foot 1 inch 325 lb absolute beast, he completely revolutionized his position and quite frankly, the game.  He was so big, so strong, and so talented around the rim that he was almost impossible to stop.  A first ballot Hall of Fame player, Shaq will be inked into the pages of NBA history as one of the greatest and most dominant players to ever play the game.

With that being said, I think his legacy would have been far better if he retired earlier.  I wasn't a fan of seeing such an iconic player wear a different uniform each year chasing after a 5th ring.  There was a time when players were dependent on Shaq, and it was troubling to see him play minimal minutes in the hopes of latching onto another championship. This was disappointing for me, but aside from that, people should not forget what this guy brought to the league.  I mean, if Shaq had the ball in the paint, it was as close to an automatic 2 points as you could get.  Not to mention, he was a legitimate force on the boards as well as a shot blocker.

It's a sad day for the NBA, losing a great basketball player and personality.  Shaq will be remembered for his jovial personality, original interviews, and his pure dominance on the court.  His presence will be missed by fans, but not by opposing players and coaches.  I wish him nothing but the best and appreciate what he brought to the league.  Take it easy big fella, and congratulations on your accomplishments throughout your highly successful career.


Throughout his 19 years in the NBA, Shaq was able to accomplish the following:

Career Season Average (1,207 Games Played): 23.7 PPG 10.9 RPG 2.5 APG 2.3 BPG
Career Playoff Average (216 Games Played): 24.3 PPG 11.6 RPG .5 APG .5 BPG
Ranks All Time: 5th in Points, 5th in Field Goals, 7th in Blocks, and 12th in Rebounds

4 NBA Championships
3 NBA Finals' MVP
1 NBA MVP
15-time NBA All Star
15-time All NBA Team
3-time All NBA Defensive Team
3-time NBA All Star Game MVP
Rookie of the Year ('92-'93)
In 2000 was Finals MVP, NBA MVP, and All Star Game MVP


Aside from his basketball game, Shaq is notorious for his assortment of nicknames which are listed below:

Shaq, The Big Aristotle, The Diesel, Superman, Shaq Fu, The Big Cactus, The Big Shaqtus, The Real Deal, Dr. Shaq, The Big Shamrock, Shaqovic, The Big Conductor, Big Fella, The Big Daddy, and many others.