NBA fans were shocked to learn about Shaquille O’Neal’s opinions on Giannis Antetokounmpo in the latest episode of the Big Pod With Shaq. O’Neal was asked about whether he or Antetokounmpo is a better player and the retired legend immediately remarked that the ‘Greek Freak’ is better.
While O’Neal is still respected as a baller long after he retired from the court, fans did not expect the legend to pinpoint Antetokounmpo as the better player, especially since Shaq himself has no qualms about showing off his accomplishments. Several fans commented that Shaq’s opinions on other players cannot be exactly trusted, since he changes his mind pretty often.
“We’re different players, but I’ll probably have to say Giannis. You know the game has evolved from when I played. And that’s what you want. You want evolution in the game.” Shaquille O’Neal answered.
Shaq says prime Giannis is better than him 👀
(🎥 @bigpodwithshaq / https://t.co/6Iz7dS6kIm) pic.twitter.com/FFx4W4Sgiq
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) October 29, 2025
“Shaq really flips a coin everyday on whether he wants to give flowers or be the biggest hater.” one fan pointed out.
“He’s not wrong. Skill wise almost all players in the NBA are better than Shaq” another fan trolled Shaq.
“Who is that second clown? Giannis dominated the game like Shaq did back in the day. You can argue shaqs prime was better u have no issue with that, saying “it isn’t even close” proves he doesn’t watch the games. Giannis only player in history to score 30 ppg on 60% fg” another fan said.
NBA Fans Back Shaq In Vs. Giannis Antetokounmpo Debate
While many NBA fans felt that Shaq was definitely right by saying that Giannis Antetokounmpo is the better player, others felt that the legend was being too humble about his own achievements. Shaquille O’Neal managed to create a permanent name for himself in the league, and is respected for his balling skills years after he announced his retirement.
“Shaq being nice tbh. Arguably one of the most humble superstars in the game. But Giannis is more versatile because he was a better two way player. But the gap between the two when it comes to dominance, it’s Shaq by a mile.” one fan said.
Shaq being nice tbh.
Arguably one of the most humble superstars in the game.
But Giannis is more versatile because he was a better two way player. But the gap between the two when it comes to dominance, it’s Shaq by a mile.
— Tailgate Sports305 (@TGSports305) October 29, 2025
“It’s close, but Shaq was more dominant. I’d take Giannis over Duncan as a Power Forward. Despite the rings, there is no way in hell Duncan was more unstoppable than Giannis.” Another fan pointed out.
“Nah Shaq must REALLY f**k with Giannis bro (laughing with tears emoji x2) shaq arguably top 5 man & his PEAK?? Top 3 easily. Love Giannis but he has not hit those peaks” one more fan said about Shaq.
Several more fans were shocked to see Shaquille O’Neal actually give flowers to one of the players from this generation. However, one thing is clear: Antetokounmpo has plenty more to do if he hopes to score the same love from fans as Shaq.
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