Shaquille O'Neal idolized Patrick Ewing.
Shaquille O'Neal's Idol: Patrick Ewing
Legendary NBA center Shaquille O'Neal held Patrick Ewing in high regard, considering him his all-time favorite player and a significant idol. Ewing, a formidable "giant" of the game, commanded O'Neal's respect and admiration throughout his illustrious career.
O'Neal's profound admiration for Ewing wasn't without its intense moments. It's reported that this competitive respect was so deep that O'Neal once even wanted to confront his idol after feeling "punked" by the New York Knicks legend. This anecdote underscores the complex mix of reverence and fierce competitive spirit that characterized O'Neal's view of Ewing. Ewing's impactful presence on the court and his status as a dominant center clearly left a lasting impression on the younger O'Neal, shaping his perspective on the game's greatest players.
