We know our man Shaq is a big fan of lists. Seems he’s got one for just about every topic, team and position in hoops. Now the big guy is stirring the pot once again, this time on one of his favorite topics: big men. On IG this week, Shaq’s latest – his personal list of the greatest centers in NBA history. The caption? Just two words: “Thank you.”
It was a classic Shaq moment — part tribute, part flex — reminding fans of both his respect for the legends and his firm belief that he’s right there with them.
Here’s how the Big Fella ranked his top 10:
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Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
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Shaquille O’Neal
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Wilt Chamberlain
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Bill Russell
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Hakeem Olajuwon
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David Robinson
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Nikola Jokic
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Moses Malone
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Patrick Ewing
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George Mikan
Topping the list is Kareem Abdul-Jabbar — no arguments there. With six championships, six MVPs, and a legendary skyhook that tormented defenders for 20 years, Kareem set the gold standard for centers. He held the all-time scoring record until LeBron James passed him in 2023.
Topping the list is Kareem Abdul-Jabbar — no arguments there. With six championships, six MVPs, and a legendary skyhook that tormented defenders for 20 years, Kareem set the gold standard for centers. He held the all-time scoring record until LeBron James passed him in 2023.
Right behind Kareem is none other than Shaq himself. And who can blame him? With four NBA titles, three Finals MVPs, and a level of dominance that left opponents in his wake, Shaq’s prime was a force of nature. He wasn’t just big — he was unstoppable.
Wilt Chamberlain takes the third spot, famous for his outrageous stat lines and that mythical 100-point game. But Shaq has said before that two titles weren’t quite enough to put Wilt in the ultimate GOAT conversation — respect for the stats, but rings matter too.
Bill Russell lands at number four, and it’s easy to see why. The Celtics legend racked up an unmatched 11 championships and defined what it meant to be a winner in his era. At number five is Hakeem “The Dream” Olajuwon — a player Shaq has always admired for his footwork, defense, and the masterclass he gave young Shaq during the 1995 Finals.
Rounding out the top 10 are David Robinson, Nikola Jokic, Moses Malone, Patrick Ewing, and George Mikan. Jokic’s inclusion at #7 raised some eyebrows, but with three MVPs and a unique game that’s changed how we see big men, the Serbian star is making his case in real time.
Then came a few bonus takes — because Shaq can’t just post a list and log off.
In a recent media appearance, he stirred the “What If” pot even more, saying he would’ve won three titles even without Kobe, had Tracy McGrady been his co-star. Oh, and with Vince Carter? He claims he’d have two rings. But the biggest statement? Pairing with Stephen Curry would’ve landed him six championships.
That’s vintage Shaq — bold, confident, and guaranteed to keep the barbershop debates going.
Of course, not everyone made the cut. Fans quickly noticed the absence of names like Dwight Howard, Alonzo Mourning, and Ben Wallace. But when the self-declared “President of the Big Man Alliance” speaks, fans tune in — whether to agree, disagree, or just be entertained.
And let’s be honest… the list might change, but one thing never will: Shaq knows how to dominate the conversation.