The advent of social media has played a pivotal role in the expansion of the NBA. Social media has completely changed the way NBA is consumed across the world. From Instagram posts to Twitter battles, fans have taken discussions about the league to a different level on social media. However, the NBA has reaped immense benefits from this ground-breaking innovation. Interestingly, Shaquille O’Neal too, has used social media to his advantage over the years.

Shaquille O’Neal had one of the most fabled careers in the NBA. The former MVP broke backboards and records simultaneously, emerging as one of the most dominant centers in league history. However, since his retirement, he has pursued a wide range of quests. Being on the panel of NBA on TNT is one such quest of the 51-year-old. His popular segment on the show, “Shaqtin A Fool” has been an internet sensation for years.

However, a former NBA champion and a constant feature on Shaq’s segment may not have the fondest memories of social media.

Former NBA champion reveals how social media tarnished his reputation

Winning a championship in the NBA is not a simple task. Championship rings have lured players for years, but only a few have been able to taste the victory. Kendrick Perkins is one such player that won the championship with the Boston Celtics in 2008. One might assume that a championship ring can earn the 38-year-old immense respect.

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However, he has been disrespected for years, also becoming a regular feature on Shaquille O’Neal’s “Shaqtin A Fool”.

Addressing his years of disrespect, Perkins said, “One, I don’t give a d**m. I don’t feel no type of way. But I just think it’s just social media.”

He went on to state “That’s what it is, that’s what our world is today. I like to go on Twitter, I actually run to the smoke. Like Twitter is where the smoke is. If you soft then d**m it, Twitter ain’t for you. Twitter is the…. when you go in there you looking for the negativity”

However, he explained why the disrespect does not bother him, saying “It’s crazy man, it’s like a younger generation man I’m 38 years old…. a lot of these guys that are on social media are 16, 17 years old…. they was still on breast milk when I was really down there putting in work so I get it“.

Perkins dismissed the disrespect he received over the years. However, the former NBA champion rightfully deserves his respect. Despite not growing into an NBA superstar, Perkins had some highlights in his career that set him apart.

Perkins deserves his flowers

Kendrick Perkins may not be the first name that comes to mind while talking about dominant centers. Maybe it is Shaquille O’Neal, the man that berated Perkins several times over the year that pops up in the mind. However, Perkins’ underrated career had its share of upsides.

Perkins was selected for the McDonald’s All-American Game in 2003. He also entered college basketball as a five-star recruit. Most significantly, he played as the starting center on a stacked Boston Celtics roster on their way to the championship. He started in all games in the regular season and the playoffs, playing a crucial role in their journey to win the coveted title. After his championship, he also played as the starting center for the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Perkins may not have had the most dominant runs in the NBA but he had an underrated pick-and-roll defensive ability and presence in the paint.

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Since his retirement, the 38-year-old has also been an active part of ESPN’s analyst panel, often sharing controversial opinions regarding the NBA. Despite the disrespect, Perkins has made a phenomenal career for himself, also amassing significant wealth over the years.