The Los Angeles Lakers have had their fair share of former players pursuing a career in coaching.
Some have found success, some haven’t, but plenty of them have tried.
It goes without saying that Shaquille O’Neal is the kind of big-name character who could’ve easily gotten a chance to coach if he wanted it.
Then again, that has been one of the few endeavors the Big Diesel has never actually considered.
When asked about that, the four-time NBA champion was brutally honest on his podcast, stating that he’s never thought of being a coach because he would just smack people if they didn’t do what he tells them to do (via Legion Hoops).
“No, never. You know why? ‘Cause I smack people. If I tell you to do something and you don’t do it, I’m just gonna smack you,” Shaq said.
Shaq on if he’s ever thought about coaching the Lakers:
“No, never. You know why? ‘Cause I smack people. If I tell you to do something and you don’t do it, I’m just gonna smack you.”
(via @bigpodwithshaq) pic.twitter.com/yZx3EQQufD
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) January 13, 2024
Judging by all the stories from his playing days and his larger-than-life persona, it’s easy to believe.
Shaq is a loving human being and has always handled himself like a big kid; he loves to make everybody laugh.
But make no mistake, he’s also got a strong character and is a huge human being, and he’s not used to people crossing him.
Shaq is also a more knowledgeable and much more intelligent person than some people give him credit for.
He was a savvy player in every aspect of the game and was quite smart with his decision-making; he wasn’t just raw power and strength.
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