If you’ve watched Inside the NBA at all, and heard our man Shaq talk about his (low) regard for certain players, this won’t come as any kind of surprise. Still, funny and interesting that O’Neal continues to preach his gospel of hard work – and of calling out those who don’t – in his eyes – measure up.
O’Neal isn’t one to hold back his opinions—and he definitely didn’t during a recent guest appearance on a podcast with host Ashley Nevel. While chatting about the current NBA playoffs and the state of the league, the Big Aristotle did what he does best: dropped a little truth, a little shade, and a lot of Shaq-style humor.
Nevel set the tone right away, telling her audience, “This isn’t just another Shaq interview. This is a conversation about greatness, growth, and the truth no one sees behind the highlight reels.” Shaq didn’t disappoint.
At one point, Nevel asked Shaq who he thought was the most overrated player in the league today—but with a twist. She wanted to know which player he’d never call out on TNT.
O’Neal’s answer? Classic Shaq.
“You’re talking about like a Rudy Gobert or Ben Simmons,” he said with a grin. “I would never say those names… Again, I would never say Rudy Gobert or Ben Simmons. I just can’t say it.”
So, of course, he totally said it.
Let’s break it down: Gobert, currently helping lead the Minnesota Timberwolves deep into the playoffs, has racked up serious accolades over his career—three-time All-Star, four-time Defensive Player of the Year, and a four-time All-NBA selection. But Shaq has never been shy about criticizing Gobert’s offensive game (or lack thereof), and that vibe hasn’t changed.
Then there’s Ben Simmons, who, despite a 6-foot-10 frame and elite-level talent, just hasn’t lived up to the hype. After being selected No. 1 overall in the 2016 NBA Draft by the 76ers, Simmons has had a career that’s been more about potential than production. This past season, he bounced between the Brooklyn Nets and L.A. Clippers, playing only 18 games and averaging 2.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game. Ouch.
Now, to be fair, Shaq didn’t go into full-on roast mode. He didn’t drop any classic “barbecue chicken” lines or threaten to “G14 classify” anyone. It was more of a wink-wink kind of diss—one that let you know exactly what he thinks, without the full TNT-style takedown.
And speaking of TNT…
Shaq continues to be a fixture on Inside the NBA, where his chemistry with Charles Barkley, Ernie Johnson, and Kenny Smith keeps fans entertained every week. Whether he’s falling off a set, breaking down a big man’s footwork, or debating Charles about anything and everything, Shaq brings the laughs—and the hot takes. This podcast moment? Just another example of why fans love him.
As the playoffs roll on and the takes get hotter, we’ll be keeping an eye on whether Rudy or Ben clap back. But if they do, they better come prepared—because Shaq doesn’t miss.