Shaquille O’Neal: A player feature from a fan’s perspective

As a Lakers fan, I had the opportunity to watch Shaquille O'Neal play in Los Angeles for eight years. In his prime, he was by far the biggest, strongest, most agile (for a player of his mass) big man I ever saw. He was both the unstoppable force and the immovable object, a nightmare matchup for opposing players and the refs as well. With Phil Jackson’s tutelage and Kobe Bryant at his side, he led the Lakers to three straight championships. I have to give respect where it’s due. Those banners in the Staples Center don’t exist without the Big Fella.

However, in light of the recent hubbub he spawned with his comments regarding Dwight Howard, I have to give criticism where it’s due as well. As much as Shaq has done in his career, he left basketball fans wanting, and this shortcoming stems from one main thing: his attitude.