Shaquille O’Neal, the legendary NBA big man with a personality as large as his shoe size, has never been one to shy away from voicing his opinions—especially when it comes to basketball. For months, the Diesel has been chanting “Angel Reese for Rookie of the Year” like it’s his personal mantra. But suddenly, it seems like a new contender has dribbled her way into Shaq’s heart, leaving fans and analysts scratching their heads. Enter Caitlin Clark, the Indiana Fever’s rookie sensation who’s been tearing up the court like a Tasmanian devil in sneakers. And oh, did we mention? She just bagged her second triple-double of the season. No big deal.
Shaq’s Surprising Shift: From Angel Reese Loyalist to Caitlin Clark Admirer?
Shaq’s public adoration for Angel Reese, the Chicago Sky’s electrifying forward, has been unwavering—until now. Reese, a powerhouse in her own right, has been dunking on Shaq’s social media like it’s her side job, but now there’s a new rookie making waves. After Clark’s stellar performance against the Los Angeles Sparks, Shaq, in a jaw-dropping twist of fate, has softened his stance. Could it be that the big man’s loyalty is wavering? Are we witnessing a classic case of basketball infidelity? Speaking to Sports Illustrated, O’Neal dropped this bombshell: “I never spoke about her (before) because Angel (Reese) is my girl, but I can truthfully say Caitlin Clark is for real.”
Well, there you have it, folks. Shaq might just be experiencing what the rest of us call a “crush on the new kid.” He even went on to confess, “I’m watching her play, and I’m trying to be upset, but she makes the right pass, makes the right play. Girls try to beat her up, and she doesn’t really complain.” If that’s not basketball admiration, I don’t know what is.
Clark’s Case for MVP: An Undeniable Force on the Court
As Shaq waffles between his two rookie faves, Caitlin Clark’s performance continues to speak louder than his Instagram rants. Statistically, Clark is making everyone else look like they’re stuck in quicksand. Aside from rebounding, where Reese holds the upper hand, Clark is leading in nearly every other category. The buzz around Clark is no longer just about Rookie of the Year; it’s MVP territory. Yes, you read that right—MVP!
O’Neal himself couldn’t help but gush a little more, saying, “Much respect to her and her family and the way she grew up and the way she plays.” Okay, Shaq, we get it. You’re a fan. But where does this leave Angel Reese? Lost in the sauce or still in the running?
The Future of Women’s Basketball: Two Titans in the Making
While Reese and Clark may not be squaring off in a WWE ring anytime soon, their rivalry on the court is certainly something to behold. Shaq summed it up best with his closing remarks: “All little girls should watch all the WNBA players, but those two (Clark and Reese) are my favorite.” Well, there you go, little girls—straight from the Big Aristotle himself. But let’s be real, folks. Shaq’s sudden change of heart might just be the most entertaining plot twist in the WNBA this season. Or maybe he’s just trying to keep us on our toes. Either way, both Reese and Clark have proven they are not just future stars—they’re the stars now.
So, grab your popcorn, because as the WNBA season heats up, so does the drama. Will Shaq remain a steadfast Reese devotee, or will Clark continue to steal his heart with every three-pointer and fast break? Stay tuned, because in the world of Shaquille O’Neal, anything can happen.