Shaquille O’Neal (Image Credits: Getty Images)
Shaquille O’Neal made waves at the BIG3 playoffs in Dallas Mavericks over the weekend, not for playing, but for making his dream team. Just a few days back, the 4x NBA Champion went viral after NBA 2K26’s promo video, which showed Angel Reese and him together on the same team. However, recently, while sitting courtside at the American Airlines Center, O’Neal was asked to name his all-time BIG3 lineup. He reached into his early days and pulled out a trio that dominated the NBA landscape.

O’Neal picked two of his most iconic former teammates to join him. The Trio’s history includes Finals appearances and championship success, though their partnerships ended too soon due to trades and injuries. They worked hard in the Eastern and Western Conferences during the 90s and early 2000s.

As per Courtside Buzz, Shaquille named himself, Kobe Bryant, and Penny Hardaway his top three picks. “Me, Kobe [Bryant], and Penny [Hardaway],” O’Neal said. “Undefeated. Never gonna lose a game.” When informed that Ice Cube’s son wanted him to suit up in the BIG3, he responded, “Never. Too old.” O’Neal also acknowledged that he can no longer dominate like before.

O’Neal underwent hip replacement surgery in 2023 and made it clear his playing days are behind him. Despite Ice Cube’s invite in 2024, the Hall of Famer has no intention of risking his health. These days, the only headlines he makes are from the media, not the court.

Shaquille O’Neal Talks About His Conditioning Method

Shaquile O’Neal (Image Credits: Getty Image)

Shaquille revealed his offseason approach during a recent podcast. He explained why he rarely trained in the summer. The Hall of Famer told Dax Shepard on Armchair Expert that his body needed time to recover after the physical toll of the NBA season.

Opponents fouled him hard constantly, and Shaquille felt rest was the best way to prepare. “Like everybody always talking about, ‘Oh, if you would have been in better shape…’” he said. “My method is my method. You beat me up so much during the year, I’m not doing s—t in the summer. ‘Cause I already know mentally when I come back, I’m killing whoever’s in my way.”

While his locker room presence often frustrated teammates, O’Neal believed his method worked and saved his best for when it mattered most in the playoffs.