Shaq Names 1 Current NBA Player More Influential Than LeBron James
Shaq Names 1 Current NBA Player More Influential Than LeBron James
In the landscape of modern basketball, few players have shaped the game’s evolution quite like Stephen Curry and LeBron James. While James has often been heralded as the superior all-around player, NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal recently sparked conversation by suggesting that Curry’s influence on basketball might surpass that of his contemporaries. The Golden State Warriors star has revolutionized the sport with his unprecedented three-point shooting, changing how teams approach offensive strategies across all levels of basketball.
Curry’s impact extends beyond his four NBA championships with the Warriors – his playing style has transformed basketball into a more perimeter-oriented game. This shift has been acknowledged by Hall of Famers and fellow NBA stars alike, including LeBron James himself, who has recognized Curry as one of the most influential players in NBA history. The ongoing debate about influence versus overall skill continues to engage fans, highlighting the different ways players can leave their mark on the game beyond MVP awards and championship rings.
Shaquille O’Neal Advocates for Stephen Curry in the GOAT Debate
Despite his reputation for criticizing current NBA talent, Shaquille O’Neal has consistently shown admiration for Stephen Curry. The NBA legend has publicly called for Curry to be included in the greatest of all time (GOAT) conversation alongside basketball icons like Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron James.
“As the supreme leader of the big man alliance, I demand you fans to start putting Steph Curry in that greatest of all time conversation,” O’Neal stated emphatically during a broadcast. He clarified that he wasn’t necessarily crowning Curry as the undisputed GOAT but rather advocating for his inclusion in the elite discussion.
O’Neal’s perspective carries significant weight given his firsthand experience competing with and against basketball legends:
- Played against Michael Jordan
- Played alongside Kobe Bryant
- Both competed against and played with LeBron James
Curry’s impressive résumé supports O’Neal’s argument:
| Achievement | Count |
|---|---|
| NBA Championships | 4 |
| MVP Awards | 2 |
| Finals MVP | 1 |
| Scoring Titles | 2 |
The former Lakers center specifically highlighted Curry’s unprecedented shooting ability, noting, “I ain’t never seen nothing like that before, and nobody has.” He also emphasized Curry’s four championships—with several victories coming against LeBron James’s teams—as further evidence supporting his case.
Basketball analysts generally agree that Curry would likely need to secure at least one more championship to solidify his position in GOAT conversations alongside Jordan and James. While universally recognized as one of basketball’s all-time greats and undoubtedly the greatest shooter in NBA history, some believe his overall résumé still trails those of Jordan, James, and other legends like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.
The 2024-25 season has witnessed a Warriors resurgence that could potentially bolster Curry’s legacy. After early struggles, Golden State has climbed to fifth place in the Western Conference with a 46-31 record. Their recent 19-4 stretch coincides with Jimmy Butler joining the team, reigniting hopes for another championship run.
This late-career renaissance could provide Curry the opportunity to further strengthen his case in the GOAT conversation that Shaquille O’Neal so passionately believes he deserves.
A graduate from the University of Texas, Anthony Amador has been credentialed to cover the Houston Texans, Dallas Cowboys, San Antonio Spurs, Dallas Mavericks and high school games all over the Lone Star State. Currently, his primary beats are the NBA, MLB, NFL and UFC.
