Was Shaq ever the best player in the NBA? | First Take

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1999-2002
# shaq
# kobe

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23:59:59

Overview

This segment of First Take discusses whether Shaquille O'Neal was ever the best player in the NBA. Max Kellerman argues that Shaq was the best player in the league during his prime, particularly in the 1999-2000 season. Stephen A. Smith contends that while Shaq was the most dominant force, Kobe Bryant surpassed him as the superior player due to his skillset and impact on the game. Kendrick Perkins highlights Shaq's three consecutive Finals MVPs and the fear he instilled in opponents, emphasizing his status as the face of the NBA during that period.

Shaq's Dominance
- 🏆
  Shaq won three consecutive Finals MVPs from 1999-2002 while playing with Kobe Bryant.
- 💪
  Many consider Shaq the most dominant force in NBA history besides Wilt Chamberlain.
- 🤩
  During this period, Shaq averaged 27 points, 11 rebounds, and shot 57% from the field.
Kobe vs Shaq
- 🏀
  Stephen A. Smith believes Kobe surpassed Shaq as the better player after the 2000 season.
- 🤔
  Stephen A. acknowledges Shaq's dominance but favors Kobe's skillset and clutch play.
- 👑
  Max Kellerman argues that Shaq was undeniably the best player in the league during the 1999-2000 season.
Shaq's Impact
- 😨
  Kendrick Perkins emphasizes the fear Shaq instilled in opponents and his undeniable impact on the game.
- 😎
  Perkins believes Shaq's footwork, agility, and ability to maneuver at his size were unique skills.
- ⭐️
  All three commentators agree that Shaq was the face of the NBA during his three-peat run with the Lakers.

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Key moments

Introduction
Stephen A. Smith introduces the topic of whether Shaq was ever the best player in the NBA.
Was Shaq ever the best?
Max Kellerman asks Kendrick Perkins if he thinks Shaq was ever the best player in the NBA.
Perkins says that Kobe was the best player, while Shaq was the most dominant.
Kellerman argues that Shaq was undoubtedly the best player in the league for several years, including 1999-2000.
Stephen A. Smith's take
Stephen A. Smith clarifies that he thought they were discussing Shaq and Kobe's time together as teammates.
He says that while Shaq was the most dominant player, Kobe was better from that point forward.
Smith reiterates that Shaq was the most dominant force in basketball history, but argues that Kobe was more skilled.
Kendrick Perkins doubles down
Perkins maintains that Shaq was the best player during their three championship years.
He joins the conversation via video call and emphasizes Shaq's dominance and impact on the game.
Perkins argues that Shaq was the face of the NBA during their championship run.
Agreement and Disagreement
Stephen A. Smith agrees that Shaq was the face of the NBA during that time.
He still believes Kobe was the better player overall.