Shaquille O’Neal says scrutiny of LeBron James is nothing new – NBA Update
Shaquille O’Neal recently announced that he will be joining the “Inside the NBA” program on TNT to a widespread joy of basketball fans around the world. In the press conference, Shaq was asked what he thought of the constant criticism
and public glare that LeBron James and the Miami Heat, have faced since LeBron’s switch from Cleveland Cavaliers.
As opposed to many who believe that the current atmosphere around James and the Heat is unprecedented, Shaq said he had seen it all before and this time would eventually pass as well. Shaq was of the belief that many superstars
have to go through a rough patch in their NBA career and LeBron has not been singled out for a special treatment.
“I would not characterize it as unfair because like I said, it happened to everyone. It happened to (Michael) Jordan when he went to Atlantic City to get away from the game. It happened to Barkley. It happened to (Dennis) Rodman.
It happened to Magic (Johnson). It happens to everybody. If it just started this year I would call it unfair, but I’ve been in the game for 20 years and I’ve seen similar stories.” Said the Big Aristotle.
“King” James has become a hated figure since his move to the Miami Heat. LeBron was initially expected to go to the New York Knicks last summer when it became clear that he would leave Cleveland. The Cavaliers fans still hoped
against hope that the ‘Chosen One’ would decide to stay in Ohio. However, LeBron had his mind made up and he announced his departure through a now infamous ESPN broadcast called “The Decision”.
After joining forces with the Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh at the Heat, where the trio are now know as the Big Three, LeBron faced hostile crowds in the majority of NBA arenas. Still, the team fought through adversity, with James
leading the way, and reached the NBA Finals in just their first year together.
However, they were undone against a veteran Dallas Mavericks side inspired by the terrific Dirk Nowitzki and LeBron has since once again seen public ire turn against him. Admitted his performances were below par in the Finals,
especially down the stretch where Dirk excelled, Shaq believes it was more a case of the Mavs playing good than the Heat playing bad.
“They just came up against a team and it was their turn,” he said. “Dirk played unbelievable. They (Mavericks) played together. I just think it was their turn.”
With so much already in the news, we can be sure of Shaq dropping many more words of wisdom once he goes on air with the “Inside the NBA” crew.
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