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via Getty

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EuroLeague, known for its wild atmosphere, added on by history and rivalry, is believed to be more competitive than the NBA by a few of its stars. If you are wondering if the rumors are true, here is Shaquille O’Neal, who has witnessed the EuroLeague live, from a trip he went to five years ago. In his podcast episode with German legend Dirk Nowitzki, Shaq shared a few things about the EuroLeague, which might blow your mind. 

In The Big Podcast, Shaq wanted to confirm a few things about Luka Doncic and his time in the EuroLeague. The Los Angeles Lakers legend recalled his trip to Europe, “About five years ago, I went to my first EuroLeague game, and they had fire in the stands and people were acting crazy.” Shaq believes Luka Doncic is fearless in the NBA because he played in the EuroLeague. However, he wanted to confirm things. 

Shaq asked Nowitzki, “You think Luka’s been a pro since he’s 13 years old, and nothing can really faze him?” Shaq continues right after, “I don’t know if you have ever seen it when I tell you they had real fire in the stands. I’m sitting there like this is nothing compared to our game,” further speaking of the fierceness Luka has dealt with in EuroLeague and since the age of 13, making him immune to being rattled.

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USA Today via Reuters

Playing in the EuroLeague is an experience that many veterans do not want to miss. The game is competitive, the fans are competitive, there is a fire in the stands and whatnot. Also, this would be the perfect chance to look into the time, when Shaq was considering joining the EuroLeague during his time in the NBA. 

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Was Shaquille O’Neal planning to join EuroLeague after his prime years in the NBA? 

After the 2006 championship with the Miami Heat, Shaquille O’Neal was switching teams, finding the right place for him to end his career. He ultimately completed his NBA career with the Boston Celtics after he left the Cleveland Cavaliers. However, before joining the Celtics for a farewell tour, Shaq had a plan to play in the EuroLeague. 

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According to a Bleacher Report from 2010, “He [Shaq] could ink one last $10 million contract if he takes his services to the EuroLeague”. The Cavaliers were willing to offer a deal worth $5-$7 million, but Shaq wanted something bigger

The Celtics did not have a lot to offer as well. Their cap space shrunk with Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, and a few more on the team. So Shaq ultimately settled for a two-year $3 million deal in 2010. It would have been a delight to see how good Shaq was in Europe. But at the same time, this was the last few months of his career. It would have been a treat if it was prime Diesel.

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