Shaquille O'Neal has unveiled his all-time NBA starting five, opting for a lineup that excludes LeBron James and includes iconic players like Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant.
Why it matters: The debate over the best all-time NBA lineup is a hot topic among fans and analysts. O'Neal's choices spark conversation about the criteria used to form these legendary teams.
O'Neal's starting five features Stephen Curry, Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan, Tim Duncan, and himself.
His exclusion of LeBron James from this elite group is sure to stir debate among basketball enthusiasts.
The lineup combines offensive firepower and defensive prowess, making it a formidable team on paper.
Driving the news: During an appearance on the New Heights podcast with Jason and Travis Kelce on June 5, 2026, O'Neal confidently named his all-time starting five.
He stated, "Nobody's beating that team," emphasizing the strength of his selections.
O'Neal's choices highlight the generational talent in the NBA and the impact each player has had on the game.
His lineup has sparked discussions about how players from different eras can be compared fairly.
State of play: O'Neal's lineup includes some of the most decorated players in NBA history.
Stephen Curry is celebrated as the greatest shooter ever, boasting 4 NBA championships and 2 MVP awards.
Kobe Bryant, a 5-time champion, is known for his scoring ability and competitive spirit.
Michael Jordan, a 6-time champion and 5-time MVP, is widely regarded as the greatest player of all time.
Tim Duncan, nicknamed 'The Big Fundamental', won 5 championships and is known for his versatility and skill.
O'Neal himself is a 4-time champion and 1-time MVP, recognized for his dominance in the paint.
The big picture: O'Neal's choices reveal a preference for players who excelled in high-pressure situations and brought unique skills to the game.
He noted the importance of needing the best shooter, hence selecting Curry at point guard.
O'Neal praised both Kobe and Jordan for their lethal scoring capabilities, describing them as players who push each other to excel.
Duncan's role as a fundamental player who can shoot off the glass adds depth to the lineup's offensive strategy.
What they're saying: O'Neal's comments have drawn attention from fans and analysts alike.
Many agree with O'Neal's assessment of Curry's shooting prowess, calling him the best shooter in NBA history.
Critics, meanwhile, argue that leaving LeBron James off the list is a major oversight, citing his own impressive accolades.
O'Neal himself acknowledged the potential backlash, stating he avoids such lists to prevent "unnecessary beef" over omissions.
By the numbers: The collective achievements of O'Neal's starting five are staggering.
Stephen Curry: 4x NBA champion, 11x All-NBA, 2x MVP, and 12x All-Star.
Kobe Bryant: 5x NBA champion, 15x All-NBA, 1x MVP, and 18x All-Star.
Michael Jordan: 6x NBA champion, 11x All-NBA, 5x MVP, and 14x All-Star.
Tim Duncan: 5x NBA champion, 15x All-NBA, 2x MVP, and 15x All-Star.
Shaquille O’Neal: 4x NBA champion, 14x All-NBA, 1x MVP, and 15x All-Star.
What's next: O'Neal's choices will likely continue to fuel discussions about all-time greats in the NBA.
Fans and analysts are expected to share their own starting fives, leading to more debates and discussions.
As the NBA evolves, comparisons between current players and legends will remain a popular topic.
O'Neal will likely face questions about his choices and their implications for the legacy of players like LeBron James.