Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to Shaquille O'Neal

Public opinion and media debates around Shaquille O'Neal—discover key moments of controversy.

Shaquille O'Neal, or Shaq, is a retired American professional basketball player and current sports analyst. Standing at 7'1" and weighing 325 pounds, he played center for six NBA teams over a 19-year career. He is a four-time NBA champion and is considered one of basketball's greatest players and centers.

Sections (7)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

1933: Securities Act

In February 2022, The U.S. 11th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that the Securities Act of 1933 extends to targeted solicitation using social media

December 17, 1996: Shoves Dennis Rodman

On December 17, 1996, Shaquille O'Neal shoved Dennis Rodman of the Chicago Bulls. Rodman's teammates Scottie Pippen and Michael Jordan restrained Rodman and prevented further conflict. O'Neal was willing to be suspended for fighting Rodman.

1996: Gold Medal at Atlanta Olympics

In 1996, O'Neal won another gold medal at the Atlanta Olympics with a perfect 8-0 record. He averaged 9.3 points and 5.3 rebounds. O'Neal was upset about coach Lenny Wilkens playing David Robinson more minutes in the final game.

November 10, 1999: Ejection from Game Against Houston Rockets

On November 10, 1999, during a game against the Houston Rockets, O'Neal and Charles Barkley were ejected after O'Neal shoved Barkley, who then threw the ball at O'Neal following a blocked layup.

1999: Anger over FIBA AmeriCup Snub

In 1999, O'Neal expressed anger over being overlooked for the FIBA AmeriCup squad, calling it a "lack of respect".

January 2002: On-Court Brawl and Suspension

In January 2002, O'Neal was involved in an on-court brawl during a game against the Chicago Bulls. He punched Brad Miller after an intentional foul, resulting in a melee. O'Neal was suspended for three games and fined $15,000.

2004: Feud with Bryant

In 2004, during training camp prior to the 2003-2004 season, the feud between O'Neal and Bryant climaxed when Bryant criticized O'Neal's conditioning, leadership, and salary demands in an interview with ESPN journalist Jim Gray.

2006: Injury and Comments on Phil Jackson

In the 2006-07 season, O'Neal missed 35 games due to a left knee injury. He criticized Phil Jackson, calling him "Benedict Arnold" after Jackson stated O'Neal was not a hard worker. Wade's shoulder dislocation left O'Neal to lead the team.

February 2008: Altercation with Riley and Trade Decision

In February 2008, O'Neal had an altercation with coach Pat Riley during practice, leading to Riley's decision to trade him. The incident stemmed from Riley ordering a tardy Jason Williams to leave practice, resulting in a face-to-face argument with O'Neal poking Riley in the chest.

March 3, 2009: Matchup Against Dwight Howard

On March 3, 2009, in a game against the Orlando Magic, O'Neal was outscored by Dwight Howard 21-19. O'Neal made comments about being too old to outscore younger players. He also discussed being double-teamed and addressed Stan Van Gundy's comments about his flopping, stating that it would describe Van Gundy's coaching.

2021: Spokesperson for FTX

In 2021, Shaquille O'Neal was a paid spokesperson for FTX, a cryptocurrency exchange.

February 2022: Bitconnect Lawsuit Ruling

In February 2022, the U.S. 11th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled in a lawsuit against Bitconnect that the Securities Act of 1933 extends to targeted solicitation using social media.

November 2022: FTX Files for Bankruptcy

In November 2022, FTX, a cryptocurrency exchange for which Shaquille O'Neal was a paid spokesperson, filed for bankruptcy, wiping out billions of dollars.