Gilbert Arenas defends Shaq as the best No. 1 overall pick.
After Shaquille O’Neal made a comment on Fadeaway World’s list of the best No. 1 overall draft picks, that content went viral. Now, Gilbert Arenas, in his podcast, offers an interesting perspective on who the best No. 1 overall draft pick in NBA history is and where Shaquille O’Neal should rank.
In no uncertain terms, Arenas asserted, “If Shaq played against Kareem, that’s a chihuahua versus a pitbull. We know Kareem could do nothing with Shaquille O’Neal… It’s 310 versus 2-something. It’s barbeque meat.” (31:30)
Arenas’ favoritism toward Shaquille O’Neal over Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is not a new stance. In a prior discussion of the greatest centers of all time, Arenas consistently placed Shaq above everyone else, including Kareem. According to him, O’Neal’s size and skill set made him unstoppable in his prime. He argued that Shaq would outperform other legendary centers in their prime, citing his combination of size, power, and skill.
Shaquille O’Neal was the first overall pick in the 1992 NBA Draft, a dominant force throughout his career, making his mark as one of the most formidable centers to ever play in the NBA. He recently expressed his displeasure at being ranked just fifth on the list of the greatest No. 1 overall draft picks. Gilbert Arenas didn’t have much to say about the other players on the list ahead of Shaq but had strong opinions about Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs. Shaquille O’Neal
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Shaquille O’Neal, two titans of the basketball world, have left an indelible mark on the NBA. When comparing these two dominant centers, it becomes a nuanced discussion that delves into various aspects of their careers and playing styles.
In terms of scoring, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar takes the crown. His unmatched skill and the legendary Skyhook shot allowed him to become, once, the all-time leading scorer in NBA history. While Shaq possessed extraordinary strength and an array of offensive moves, his points often came from overpowering opponents in the paint. Kareem’s finesse and versatility in scoring make him the superior choice in this category.
When it comes to athleticism, Shaquille O’Neal stands out as a physical marvel. The nickname “The Diesel” is well-deserved, as Shaq combined size and athleticism to become an unstoppable force on both ends of the court. His ability to run the break, dominate in the post, and throw defenders aside with ease showcases his unique athletic prowess. In contrast, Kareem relied more on fundamental skills, height, and length, making Shaq the clear choice in this department.
In terms of defense, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar emerges as the victor. He was a consistent presence in the paint, leading the league in blocks four times and earning 11 All-Defensive Team selections. Kareem’s shot-blocking ability and rim protection were truly exceptional. While Shaq was an imposing defensive force due to his sheer size, Kareem’s defensive acumen and longevity give him the edge.
Both players displayed clutch performances throughout their careers. Shaq, often criticized for his free-throw shooting, proved doubters wrong by making significant plays in crunch time. His three consecutive Finals MVP awards with the Lakers are a testament to his clutch abilities. Kareem, with his iconic Skyhook, was also a go-to option when it mattered most. Both players delivered in crucial moments, making this category a draw.
In terms of leadership, Shaquille O’Neal takes the lead. His dominant personality and on-court presence demanded the ball and elevated the play of his teammates. Winning three consecutive Finals MVPs while leading the Lakers exemplifies his impact as a leader. On the other hand, Kareem was fortunate to have Magic Johnson as his co-leader during his Lakers tenure, reducing his leadership responsibilities. Shaq’s ability to rally his team and secure championships gives him the edge in this aspect.
In basketball IQ, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar excels. His understanding of the game allowed him to dominate both offensively and defensively. The Skyhook shot was his signature move, and he utilized it to draw double teams and create opportunities for his teammates. Shaq’s basketball IQ was remarkable, but he couldn’t match Kareem’s level of finesse and strategic understanding.
The impact of both players on the game is undeniable. Shaq’s physical dominance and three straight championships with the Lakers left an indelible mark. Kareem’s incredible scoring, defensive prowess, and numerous accolades make his impact equally profound. It’s challenging to separate the two in this category.
In one-on-one situations, Shaquille O’Neal was virtually unstoppable. His combination of size, strength, and agility made him a force to be reckoned with. Kareem, while possessing the Skyhook, was more of a team player who excelled in a structured offense. In a one-on-one matchup, Shaq’s physicality and scoring ability give him the upper hand.
Ultimately, when considering their careers as a whole, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar emerges as the greater center. His exceptional scoring, defensive contributions, leadership, and basketball IQ, combined with an illustrious career that includes six NBA titles and numerous individual awards, set him apart as one of the most iconic figures in basketball history. Shaquille O’Neal’s dominance and impact are undeniable, but Kareem’s all-around excellence makes him the standout choice in the Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs. Shaquille O’Neal debate.