Shaquille O’Neal gives his two cents on the current drama about Draymond Green’s chokehold on Rudy Gobert. While Steve Kerr might disagree with his player’s demeanor, O’Neal shares a different take.
Shaquille O’Neal Would Choke Rudy Gobert For His Teammates
The NBA knows the big man for his comical nature and dominance on the court. However, he’s ready to get down to business during serious moments like the Minnesota Timberwolves versus Golden State Warriors kerfuffle.
He recently made fun of the situation as he put Charles Barkley in a chokehold. This showcases his joking and fun-loving attitude.
However, when you disrespect and lay a hand on his teammates, he’s ready to knock you out.
In an interview with the Los Angeles Times, he confirmed he would do the same thing. The context wouldn’t matter so long as you’re hurting his teammate.
He calls back to the older generations who wouldn’t tolerate this behavior.
“I’m from the old school, so you always stick up for your guys.”
Shaquille O’Neal
He even uses the interview as an example, saying that if anyone were to hurt Chuck Schilken, he’d be ready to beat them up.
It’s always great to have someone watching your back, it doesn’t matter if it’s in the cul-de-sac or a dark alleyway.
“Like, me and you are doing the interview right now—somebody come put their hands on you, I’m gonna beat them up ’cause you’re my guy.”
Shaquille O’Neal
O’Neal Might Have Done It But He Disagrees With It
The Hall of Famer might resort to what Green did but disagrees with the course of action.
He tries to balance being honest about what he’d do while still disagreeing with it.
“But you get these people who say it was wrong—like, I try not to be a hypocrite. I would’ve did the same thing. I’m not gonna sit here and say he was wrong, he shouldn’t have did it. He probably shouldn’t have did it.”
Shaquille O’Neal
However, the 15-time All-Star always trusts his gut during these moments. He even makes up his own acronym, WWSD—what would Shaq do?
WWSD in that moment? He would chokehold the player holding his teammate.
“But WWSD, what would Shaq do? Shaq would’ve did the same thing.”
Shaquille O’Neal
Do you agree with the big man’s take? Did Gobert deserve what Green did to him?
O’Neal isn’t just a mean mug and a tough guy; he’s also got a soft side ready to poke fun at anyone.
