Yeah, Wilts death reminds people just how awsome he was. When they post all his stats you just have to believe he was the greatest ever. over a 14 year career he averaged 30.1 points per game and 25.7 boards. In 61-62 season he averaged 50.4 ppg and 25.7 boards. In 68 he led the league in assists while averaging 24.3 ppg and 23.8 ppg. he led the league in rebounds an unprecedented 11 seasons and was the scoring leader for seven straight seasons--a feat only MJ has been able to accomplish since. now dont get me wrong, Shag could never live up to these expectations. But with his size and height the guy should lead the league in boards every season and should dominate in points also. Especially since he does have some quickness for a guy his size. But Shaq is more interested in doing crappy movies and making crappy records than devoting his time to the sport that pays his bills. Shaq owes his fans more that that. For that 20 million he makes he should deliver some rings. And that is the reason that I dont think this guy should have made the top 50 graetest players list. When guys like Dominique Wilkens and Calvin Murphy dont because the NBA has to make room for this loser that shoots 50% from the line it disgusts me. Sometimes I wish that guys like Wilt, E Baylor and E Hays were in this league. Guys like these who play for the love of the game, not for the love of the money, like Penny and Shaq. The fans back then didn't know how good they had it.
I think this thread belongs in another...... Shaq is entering his 8th year? I know people say he doesn't devote as much time to the game as he needs. I am starting to conclude that this is all the talent Shaq has. He's big, strong, powerful. He can dunk real good so he has atleast a 3 inch vertical. He isn't quick moving his feet on D (except for blocking Mobley's shot) and he has absolutely NO TOUCH at all. The next time you watch Shaq play, watch how many buckets he scores OUTSIDE the paint. They are few and far between. I also wonder if he would have become the star he is if he didn't have a cool name like Shaq. For instance, Ernie O'Neal doesn't have quite the ring that Shaq does. I just don't think he is going to improve much. Practice can only take you to a certain level - the rest is giftedness. [This message has been edited by Rocket Freak (edited October 13, 1999).]
Part of it is talent. Some people just have enormous talent. I think that desire and practice can take you just as far. ------------------ Rockets Center runs, blasts through the opponent, he is Hakeem the Dream.
I like Shaq. Hes cool people. And I think that when his career is over, he will be remembered as a great, great player. But the way to become an ALL TIME GREAT is to dominate on BOTH sides of the floor and get some rings. So far, not looking too good for the big guy. ------------------ Those who are late DO NOT get fruit cup.
