Although he had previously doubted Caitlin Clark’s ability to succeed in the WNBA, Shaquille O’Neal is now one of her biggest fans. At first, O’Neal was more in favor of Angel Reese, an LSU standout and Shaq’s alma mater, but Clark’s outstanding play and league leadership have subsequently won him over.
Shaq was close to Angel Reese as an LSU alum, particularly following her memorable March Madness performance. O’Neal, who even signed Reese as the president of the company’s basketball division, said that his preference for Reese over Caitlin Clark was driven by his allegiance to LSU.Shaq said, “I had to be Team Angel,” alluding to his affiliation with the university.
But O’Neal just revealed in an interview with Sports Illustrated that his opinions on Clark had fundamentally shifted. Despite his previous opinion, he admitted that Clark’s abilities on the court had made an effect on him.
Caitlin Clark wins over Shaq
Shaq complimented Clark’s game early in the interview, stating, “Caitlin does everything perfectly. Since [Angel] is my girl, I’ve never talked about her [before], but I can honestly state that Caitlin Clark is real. I’m trying to be angry as I watch her play, but she makes the right play and passes.”
Shaq observed that Clark maintains his composure in the face of tough play, which he finds admirable. “She gets beat up by girls, but she doesn’t really complain. Even at this early stage of her career, she’s a wonderful one,” he remarked.
O’Neal expressed his love for the rising star without holding back, saying, “She’s the real deal.” Much respect to her, her family, her upbringing, and her playing style. All young girls ought to watch every WNBA player play, but my two favorites are Clark and Reese.”
Clark’s impact on the WNBA
In her debut season with the Indiana Fever, Caitlin Clark has contributed greatly, helping the team qualify for the playoffs for the first time since 2016. Her outstanding achievements have caused the WNBA’s viewership to soar and retail sales to reportedly surge by 500%.Shaq’s conversion to a different religion confirms Clark’s ascent to prominence in the league.
