Shaquille O’Neal and Dwight Howard’s rivalry, which has been simmering for years, was reignited recently on social media after Howard made comments about O’Neal on a podcast. Howard discussed his career and expressed frustration with the criticism he has received from Shaq, especially regarding their comparison as centers in the NBA.
In the podcast, Howard said, “I hated the most is the fact that he always thought I was trying to be him or be like him. But again, if I wanted to be you or be like you, shouldn’t you take that as a compliment and to show how great you are as a player and a person?”
O’Neal wasted no time responding to Howard’s comments. On X (formerly Twitter), Shaq posted a scathing message, saying, “Dwight Howard the fact u think I care about u is funny, but I won’t ever bring your name up again sensitive big man, a jokester that can’t take a joke. Won’t ever say your name again ever again. Have a great day and now u have been deleted. Have a great day. #inevercared #trustme.”
The animosity between the two began years ago, particularly when Howard joined the Los Angeles Lakers in 2012, and it worsened after Howard won his only NBA championship with the Lakers in 2020. O’Neal, with four championships to his name, has often criticized Howard’s achievements, feeling they don’t measure up to his own.
Despite the heated exchange, Howard suggested he was open to resolving the conflict. “All right, Shaq, I just never disrespected… But he’s always had something to say and you know there are times where I got enough and I’m like, yo Shaq just gotta stop,” Howard said in the podcast. However, he also hinted at being ready for a physical confrontation, escalating the tension.
This ongoing feud between the two NBA stars continues to draw attention, leaving fans wondering if the rivalry will ever come to an end.
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