Shaquille O'Neal on Becoming a Hall Of Famer With NBA Legends Like Yao Ming and Allen Iverson: "I Wish My Father Was There"

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Shaquille O’Neal on Becoming a Hall Of Famer With NBA Legends Like Yao Ming and Allen Iverson: “I Wish My Father Was There”

ByAbhinav Bhalla

Feb 3, 2022 | 6:30 AM EST

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Shaquille O’Neal was one of the most dominating centers to ever play the sport. He has had a legendary career over the years and impacted every team he has played with. Shaq had major roles on each and every team. Over his years, he has played with Orlando Magic, Miami Heat, Los Angeles Lakers, Phoenix Suns, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Boston Celtics.

In a conversation with Seth Meyers on his show, Shaq revealed that he loved getting into the Hall of Fame in an amazing inductee class. However, he said, “I wish my father was there“. Shaq had a special relationship with his father and he always shared all his achievements with his father. Not being able to see his happiness on the day Shaq achieved the highest NBA honor was truly emotional for him.

He had an exceptional 19-year career, which culminated in various awards and achievements. Shaq also won four championship rings in his career. He truly earned the spot in the Hall of Fame. Additionally, Shaq was also Rookie of the Year in 1993 and won the MVP award in 2000. Moreover, he won the finals MVP award three times. To add to this list of impressive feats, Shaq also secured the scoring title two times.

The 15-time All-Star got inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2016 along with other fellow counterparts, such as Allen Iverson and Yao Ming. Allen Iverson is still considered one of the most athletic and lethal scorers of all time. On the other hand, Yao Ming is the most celebrated NBA athlete from China.

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Shaquille O’Neal’s funny antics at the Hall of Fame ceremony

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The Hall of Fame ceremony witnessed some wholesome Shaq moments. The NBA authorities were trying to put a jacket on 7 foot 6 inch Yao Ming. Everyone was struggling with that task. Shaq revealed that he was the one who helped them put the jacket on Yao Ming.

Shaq even revealed that a lot of his friends were challenging him for the ceremony. His friends wagered him $20,000 that he will end up crying. Shaq hilariously replied saying that “I was just sitting up there thinking of cookies”.

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Shaq said, “it was actually wonderful man, it was a great event” when asked how the Hall of Fame ceremony was.