Shaquille O’Neal and Dwight Howard’s beef has spanned years, marked by mutual criticism and tension. Both former NBA stars began their careers with the Orlando Magic and later played for the Los Angeles Lakers, yet their relationship has been far from cordial. While both players have achieved success in their careers, their ongoing rivalry has stirred up debates. Now, many want to know the reason behind Shaq and Howard’s feud.
Here is more about the Shaq vs. Dwight Howard X (formerly Twitter) feud.
What happened to Shaq and Dwight Howard?
The Shaq vs. Dwight Howard feud has been a topic of discussion for years, with both players being considered among the greatest centers in NBA history. Their beef recently flared up again when Howard appeared on the GAUDS show and expressed frustration with Shaquille O’Neal, accusing him of throwing continuous shade. This prompted O’Neal to respond on X (formerly Twitter). He wrote, “the fact u think I care about u is funny, but I won’t ever bring your name up again sensitive big man, a jokester that can’t take a joke. Won’t ever say your name again ever again. Have a great day and now u have been deleted. Have a great day.”
Howard wasted no time in responding with a fiery message of his own. He called O’Neal “insecure” and claimed that Shaq had been secretly jealous of other players, including Kobe Bryant and Charles Barkley. Howard also referenced a private message O’Neal supposedly sent him years ago, telling Howard that he wasn’t good enough to warrant the hate. Howard’s rebuttal included a call for Shaq to move on, criticizing him for continuing to hate on him well into his 50s. (via X)
The feud between Shaquille O’Neal and Dwight Howard also centers around the “Superman” nickname. Shaq popularized it during his dominant years, but when Howard adopted it, O’Neal felt disrespected. Over the years, Shaq has criticized Howard for not living up to the tough, dominant persona that the nickname represents.
Originally reported by Disheeta Maheshwari on ComingSoon.
