In a show of respect between Hall of Fame centers, former Orlando Magic center Shaquille O’Neal reflected on his team’s loss to the Houston Rockets in a four-game sweep during the 1995 NBA Finals.
On Friday, O’Neal — who currently works an analyst for the NBA on TNT — served as “principal for the day” at Pine Shadows Elementary School in Houston’s Spring Branch.
Buy Rockets TicketsIn a wide-ranging interview at the event, Josh Criswell of chron.com asked “Shaq” about his battles with rival Hakeem Olajuwon and the Rockets. When asked of his greatest takeaway, O’Neal said:
Just him being one of the best ever. I realized that in order to be the best, you have to beat the best. That year we faced off, and the best won out. It just made me a much stronger competitor.
Olajuwon was named NBA Finals MVP after averaging 32.8 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game. O’Neal averaged 28.0 points, 12.5 rebounds, and 6.3 assists in four straight losses.
Shaq is in Houston serving as principal for the day at Pine Shadows Elementary as part of an event with @MyEyeDr, where he's highlighting the importance of eye health and clear vision.
The NBA legend discussed his love for the city, the 23-24 Rockets and his battles with Hakeem. pic.twitter.com/KjblA3YiCL
— Josh Criswell (@criswell_sports) September 22, 2023
