Shaquille O'Neal adds Kobe Bryant to NBA GOAT conversation

Shaquille O'Neal told listeners of "The Big Podcast" that the discussion over the greatest NBA player of all time should include three names – Kobe Bryant, LeBron James and Michael Jordan. He said, "There are only three people in the GOAT conversation. I'm arrogant, but I'm not dumb. It's Kobe, Bron and Mike, that's it."

O'Neal highlighted Bryant's résumé: five NBA championships with the Los Angeles Lakers, two Finals MVP awards, a 2008 regular‑season MVP, and a legendary 81‑point game against the Toronto Raptors in 2006. He contrasted Bryant's five titles with James' four and Jordan's six, noting that while Jordan won six titles and was Finals MVP each time, Bryant's achievements merit inclusion alongside the other two legends.

The remarks have sparked renewed debate among fans and analysts about the criteria for the sport's "GOAT" title.