Chicago Bulls legend Michael Jordan had an unmatched impact on the growth of the NBA throughout his incredible career, becoming a global icon and an ambassador for the sport. Known for his electrifying playstyle, relentless competitiveness, and flawless 6-0 record in the NBA Finals, Jordan is the name that comes to mind for most fans when discussing the greatest player of all time (GOAT).
While Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James has made a strong case for himself in recent years, many still consider Michael Jordan to be the undisputed GOAT of basketball.
His legacy, defined by six championships, five MVP awards, and countless iconic moments, has made him synonymous with greatness in the eyes of millions of fans worldwide.
However, when it comes to the GOAT debate, not everyone agrees on Jordan’s supremacy. Angel Reese, a current player for the Chicago Sky of the WNBA, recently weighed in on the topic, and her answer took many by surprise. Despite playing for a Chicago-based team and having an apparent connection to Jordan’s legacy, Reese named LA Lakers legend Shaquille O’Neal as her pick for the greatest of all time.
“Of all time? Oh, my God. I’mma say Shaq,” Reese said when asked about her GOAT selection.
There’s no doubt that Shaquille O’Neal is one of the most dominant forces the NBA has ever seen. Standing at over seven feet tall, with an unmatched combination of size, strength, and agility, O’Neal terrorized opposing defenses during his prime. He led the Lakers to three consecutive NBA championships from 2000 to 2002, won league MVP in 2000, and was named Finals MVP three times. O’Neal’s career accomplishments are impressive by any standard, but he is rarely mentioned in the GOAT debate, which tends to focus on Jordan, LeBron, Kobe Bryant, and other versatile perimeter players.
Reese’s pick may seem unconventional to many basketball fans, but it becomes more understandable given her personal connection with O’Neal. The WNBA star has openly expressed that she has an uncle-niece relationship with the legendary center, and her admiration for him goes beyond just his on-court accomplishments. It’s likely that O’Neal’s mentorship and influence on Reese have played a significant role in her choosing him as the GOAT, and she values his impact on her life and career as much as his legacy in the NBA.
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At the end of the day, the GOAT debate is subjective, and everyone is entitled to their opinion on who the greatest basketball player of all time is. Angel Reese’s pick of Shaquille O’Neal certainly stands out, particularly because of her ties to Chicago, a city that worships Michael Jordan as its basketball savior.
Given her connection to the city and its storied basketball history, Reese’s choice to name O’Neal over Jordan could be seen as surprising, if not controversial, among NBA fans, particularly those who believe that Jordan’s influence and accolades make him the clear GOAT.
However, Reese is not concerned about the backlash.
To her, Shaquille O’Neal’s impact goes beyond statistics and titles—his personality, charisma, and larger-than-life presence are what make him deserving of the title in her eyes.
She values the intangibles that made O’Neal a beloved figure both on and off the court, and her choice reflects the deep personal bond she shares with the Lakers legend.
For many fans, Michael Jordan’s legacy is untouchable. The image of him leading the Chicago Bulls to six championships, his fierce competitive spirit, and his unforgettable performances in the NBA Finals have cemented him as the quintessential GOAT.
But for others, like Angel Reese, greatness is about more than just rings and accolades—it’s about the influence, personality, and relationships that players build throughout their careers. In Reese’s eyes, Shaquille O’Neal embodies all of these qualities, making him her GOAT.
Reese may face criticism from the NBA community for her unconventional pick, especially considering her ties to Chicago, but her choice is a reminder that the GOAT debate is ultimately a matter of perspective.
Whether it’s Jordan’s unmatched competitiveness, LeBron’s versatility, or Shaq’s sheer dominance, each player has left an indelible mark on the game. And for Angel Reese, it’s Shaquille O’Neal who stands out above the rest.
