Shaquille O?Neal Revamps NBA Finals Prediction After Showering Ultimate Praise on Superstar Duo

We’re all allowed to change our opinions. Shaquille O?Neal too. He had previously made a bold prediction for the 2024 NBA champions. He’s changed his mind this time. Two athletes are a big factor shaping his analysis. After all, he was looking down on one athlete-rapper only to turn around and collaborate with him. His fellow athlete-rapper had a big part in changing Shaq’s opinion about the next NBA champs.

Though this star combination earned Shaq’s praise, he’s wary about the league’s new super teams. O’Neal, who was one half of a winning duo too, has a piece of advice for these star-studded franchises.

Shaquille O’Neal picks his collaborator as champ

While in Mexico to promote his newest business venture, the local publication Cancha?asked Shaquille O’Neal for his forecast of the 2023-24 NBA finals. He picked two teams with the potential to make it farthest. “I think the Golden State Warriors will come against the Milwaukee Bucks,” was Shaq’s opinion. And he’s favoring one to win because of its star duo.

When asked, “Speaking of pairs. Is Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard’s the best of the moment?”?O’Neal’s answer was unhesitant. “Yes, I think it’s the best, definitely.”

The Milwaukee Bucks have his approval because of their powerhouse pairing, much like the Lakers’ duo of Shaq and Kobe. Damian Lillard aka Dame Dolla rapped about that duo’s greatness with DJ Diesel?himself in the “Shaq & Kobe” remix.

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Dame Dolla and?The Greek Freak?give Shaq the confidence for Bucks’ chances at winning. Only a month ago, he was giving that vote of confidence to the Dallas Mavericks. He didn’t give an explanation but the choice raised a few eyebrows.

The Luka Doncic – Kyrie Irving combination couldn’t lead the Mavs past the playoffs last season. They fell to the Bucks 125-132 in their last matchup. Shaq’s however been a fan of Doncic and Irving’s skills. Still, the Big Aristotle doesn’t put all his faith in super teams.

Shaq treads lightly on superstar combinations

Meek Mill and Rick Ross dropped “Shaq & Kobe” this year putting the dominant duo’s legacy into rhymes. It was followed with a remix including one half of the muses and Dame Lillard.

Shaquille O’Neal was previously dismissive about Lillard’s rap hustle. Clearly his music skills and his hoops talents have changed his mind.

But O’Neal would also refer to his partnership with Bryant to warn that such combinations don’t have a 100% success rate. It only works if done right, he told the outlet.

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It does look like the Bucks have a winning combination on their hands. The Warriors come second for Shaq. He’s, however, doubtful about LeBron James’ chances of winning a fifth ring. What do you think about Shaq’s predictions for the season?