Our man Shaq has never been shy about speaking his mind, especially when it comes to NBA big men. Since retiring from his Hall of Fame playing career, the Los Angeles Lakers legend has built a second legacy as one of the most entertaining and outspoken personalities in sports media. From his longtime role on Inside the NBA to countless appearances across television, movies, and commercials, Shaq has become larger than life all over again.
But if there’s one lane he always stays true to, it’s holding the game’s big men accountable. O’Neal knows what it takes to dominate in the paint — and he isn’t afraid to call out centers who he feels aren’t living up to their potential.
Shaq’s “Tough Love” Playbook
Shaq has made headlines over the years for his pointed criticism, especially toward Dwight Howard during Howard’s prime. Shaq believed Howard had all the tools to be an all-time great but left too much on the table. The criticism may have been harsh, but it came from a place of respect — and Shaq made sure to show that respect when Howard was inducted into the Hall of Fame earlier this month, even attending the ceremony to support him.
That’s classic Shaq: tough on players when they’re grinding, supportive once they’ve cemented their legacy.
Who’s Left for Shaq to Challenge?
Recently, Shaq admitted he’s having a harder time finding today’s centers who can handle his brand of “tough love.” He singled out three names: Nikola Jokic, Victor Wembanyama, and Joel Embiid.
-
Nikola Jokic: Shaq gave Jokic nothing but respect, saying the Nuggets superstar has earned his spot as the best center in the league. With a championship under his belt and a style of play that rewrites what it means to be a big man, Jokic is untouchable in Shaq’s eyes.
-
Victor Wembanyama: The 7’4” French phenom is just getting started, entering his third NBA season. Shaq calls him “still in that baby era,” but the potential is sky-high. Wemby’s leap in Year 3 could put him firmly in the conversation as one of the best players in the world.
-
Joel Embiid: This is where Shaq got blunt. While acknowledging Embiid’s MVP talent, O’Neal said he struggles to be tough on him because the Sixers star “can’t take it.” Between injuries and playoff disappointments, Embiid hasn’t lived up to Shaq’s expectations — and now Shaq is considering taking him out of his program altogether.
Enter the Big Man Association
This is exactly why Shaq founded the Big Man Association (BMA) — a fraternity of sorts where the great centers of the past hold today’s bigs accountable. From Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to Patrick Ewing, the game has always had giants who demanded respect. Shaq sees it as his duty to pass the torch — but only to players who earn it.
Right now, Jokic has that crown. Wembanyama might be next. Embiid? The jury’s still out.
The Verdict
Shaq’s voice matters because he’s been there. He’s dominated, he’s won, and he’s carried the pressure of being the guy. When he speaks on big men, it’s not just commentary — it’s a challenge. The question is, who’s ready to step up and take it?