20-Year-Old Shaquille O’Neal Called Charles Barkley One of the Strongest Players in the NBA: “Ewing and Olajuwon. Karl Malone’s Pretty Strong Too”

Young Shaquille O’Neal looked different in contrast to the giant we see today. After a successful career in the NBA, the powerhouse has chosen to be an analyst, working in the NBA’s TNT show. An iconic pair on the show is that of Shaq and former player Charles Barkley. Back in the day, however, a 20-year-old Shaq had praised ‘Chuck’ as one of the strongest guys in the league.

One of the greatest center-forwards to have graced the game, Shaquille O’Neal entered the NBA at the age of 20. After few seasons with the Orlando Magic, the Los Angeles Lakers completed one of the greatest signings ever. At the time, O’Neal was one of the most expensive recruits, going on to form an iconic duo with Kobe Bryant. Many years later, the franchise opted to retain Kobe, while Shaq made his way to the Miami Heat.

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When Shaquille O’Neal lauded Charles Barkley, Hakeem Olajuwon, and Karl Malone

What impressed the Buss family most about Shaq, was his ability to control the game on both fronts. The 7-footer could consistently weigh in with 20+ point games while being a menace in defense too. Moreover, he had the confidence of a veteran. Back in 1993, the eventual 15-time All-Star had already evaluated the competition and knew what it would take to succeed in the NBA. Here’s a rare clip of him analyzing some of the best players back then.

In 1993, O’Neal was still a rookie, at the tender age of 20. Yet, he averaged 23.4 points, 1.9 assists and 13.9 rebounds that year. Naturally, the now 49-year-old was touted as American basketball’s next powerhouse Hall-of-Famer. In a rare interview, however, Shaq was asked who he thought were the strongest men in the NBA. He had a peculiar answer.

“I guess, Ewing and Olajuwon,” stated the eventual 4-time NBA champion. “Karl Malone’s pretty strong too. [Charles] Barkley’s pretty strong too.”

The subtle innocence, yet unwavering confidence of Shaquille O’Neal in the 90s, is a sight to behold. Many years later, he and Sixers legend Barkley are great friends off the court. And on the court, the duo certainly did themselves proud!

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