Not many present day fans got the opportunity to witness Dwight Howard and Shaquille O’Neal and their long-standing rivalry. This rivalry started with Howard’s use of a Superman cape during the 2008 Slam Dunk Contest. Though they never had an on-court altercation, Howard embracing the “Superman” nickname ignited a conflict with O’Neal.
The tension between the two extended beyond the court, as Shaq and Howard exchanged words on social media. This happened in a recent Instagram exchange, as Shaquille O’Neal once again criticized Howard over the Superman title. Soon after, Dwight Howard responded that he doesn’t hold any hatred for the four-time NBA champion.
I never called myself you! This is petty. My nickname is Deebo! Other people called me Superman and we could’ve talked out whatever issues there is but you got me blocked. But it’s all love Shaq, keep being a legend… Who blocks someone over a nickname owned by Warner Brothers there is no real Superman it sounds petty.
Dwight Howard via Instagram
Shaquille O’Neal has a history of wearing Superman shirts. The thought of having the iconic “S” tattoo go to someone else led to the long-standing feud. O’Neal’s frustrations became more evident when he retired in 2011 and handed out shirts that said “The Real Superman.” The fans interpreted this as a clear jab at Howard.
Shaq and Dwight Howard going back and forth on IG over ‘Superman’ nickname 🍿
(h/t @LADEig) pic.twitter.com/15K8FWGHwd
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) September 27, 2024
It all started during the 2008 Slam Dunk Contest, where Howard’s remarkable athleticism earned him the nickname “Superman.” Though Howard showed flashes of dominance similar to Shaq during his prime with the Magic, he was never able to fully live up to the nickname in O’Neal’s eyes.
Shaquille O’Neal snubs LeBron James for Michael Jordan in his starting five
The NBA’s GOAT debate will never end as Shaq got involved when he chose his starting five players. It began when he was asked by German paper Sport Bild. Soon, one particular set of fans is calling for blood over the omission made the four-time NBA champion
In the interview, Big Shaq selected Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Julius Erving, Karl Malone, and himself as his ideal lineup. His choices have ignited discussions in the basketball community, especially with his inclusion of both Jordan and Bryant, two players he considers worthy of the ‘GOAT’ conversation.
Shaq says Michael Jordan is the greatest player of all time and reveals his all-time starting five:
Michael Jordan
Kobe Bryant
Julius Erving
Karl Malone
Shaquille O’Neal(Via Sport Bild) pic.twitter.com/ydKyEFbuEc
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) September 27, 2024
Furthermore, O’Neal’s selections also reflect his personal inspirations, as he included Julius Erving, who inspired him to pursue basketball. However, O’Neal’s decision to exclude LeBron James from his lineup is a case of the old era vs. current era debate. It is nothing personal or an attempt to insult James.
