For those who believe it is challenging to keep Shaquille O’Neal grounded when he gets animated in the NBA on TNT studio, it was even more difficult during his prime playing years. The 7’1″ center was known for following his ways, even if they led to him getting into ugly spats with Kobe Bryant or Pat Riley.
However, during his first day with the Miami Heat, a young Udonis Haslem wasted no time asserting his authority, ensuring that ‘The Big Aristotle’ understood he was in unfamiliar territory.
Shaq on Haslem earning his respect
On a recent episode of his podcast, the three-time Finals MVP recounted an incident from his first day with the Heat, in which O’Neal highlighted how UD was unafraid to challenge him. Moreover, the 6’8″ forward earned Shaquille’s respect in a peculiar way by subtly threatening him.
“I’m a pseudo-psychologist. I gotta know who I’m dealing with, right? So, ‘UD get rebound.’ (He said), ‘Big fella ***** ain’t going to be too many more ***.’ Now, I know hard. He with me,” Shaq said . “(He said) ‘Don’t forget where you at big fella… I’m from Miami.’ I was like, ‘Okay.’ I know not to f**k with him. Let me go to the next player.”