NBA.com released a preview of Shaq’s upcoming Basketball Stories documentary on NBA TV called Shaq: the Rookie Season. O’Neal talked about facing Barkley and how he looked up to him when he entered the league.
The way Barkley dunked the basketball inspired O’Neal to do the same. That proved to be quite effective, as O’Neal even destroyed the backboard stanchion in his first game against Barkley and the Phoenix Suns on Feb. 7, 1993.
However, Barkley got the better of their first matchup, helping the Suns beat the Orlando Magic 121-105. “The Round Mound of Rebound” finished with 28 points, 19 rebounds, five assists and two blocks. O’Neal was in foul trouble for most of the game and even fouled out, playing just 29 minutes. He had 20 points, five rebounds and two blocks.
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Shaquille O’Neal and Charles Barkley fought on court in 1999
Before they became friends, Shaquille O’Neal and Charles Barkley fought in a game in 1999. It started when Barkley was fouled by Glen Rice but threw the ball to O’Neal’s head. Shaq responded with a left hand that barely missed Barkley, who took down the 325-pound big man.
The two were immediately separated by their teammates and were both ejected from the game. As it turns out, the two became close after their brawl, thanks to their mothers. Shaquille O’Neal recalled what happened in the locker room and how he reconciled with Barkley.
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