Post by TinyTimPig on Jun 3, 2022 14:54:53 GMT -5
Shaquille O'Neal
C
7'1
325
20
LSU
The best big man prospect to enter TMBSL since Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Shaq put up numbers in college that you'd need to see to believe. He was a monster at both ends of the floor, averaging 24.1 points on 61.5% (!!!) from the field, 14 rebounds, and 5.2 blocked shots per game. He's an unstoppable force down low and combines strength and skill to score against anyone and everyone. On defense, you'll never see him get backed down and, once his opponent realizes he's not going to get any closer to the basket, Shaq shows decent timing to get up and block shots at a respectable rate against pro tier players, although he doesn't go for many strips. He's an incredible rebounder on offense, showing the size and desire to grab every loose ball in his vicinity, but merely good on the defensive boards. Getting switched out on the perimeter would be an issue at his size even if he tried, but he doesn't.
The biggest knock on Shaq is his free throw shooting. He's godawful from the line and teams often felt more comfortable fouling him than letting him get an easy two. He also turns it over a fair bit due to his high usage, but most coaches are willing to look right past that as he's so efficient once the ball gets into his hands in the post, and being a willing passer is sure to keep his future teammates from developing any grudges.
Truth be told, Shaq is the complete package. He'll be a contributor from day one and, at just 20, is also one of the younger players in this class. There may be some room for growth, but one's ceiling can only be so high.
