Former President Barack Obama recently caused a stir in the sports world by unveiling his personal NBA “Starting Five” lineup, a dream team of basketball legends. However, the list left many fans—and even NFL legend Shaquille O’Neal—shocked by a glaring omission: the
Shaquille O’Neal himself. Known for his dominance on the court and larger-than-life personality, O’Neal is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in NBA history. But Obama’s exclusion of Shaq from his top five has sparked widespread conversation and debate.
Obama’s Starting Five: The Surprise Lineup
During an interview, Obama revealed his all-time NBA “Starting Five,” selecting players he believed represented the best combination of skill, influence, and championship pedigree.
The lineup included the likes of Michael Jordan, LeBron James, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar—an undeniably legendary group of basketball icons.
But it was the absence of Shaquille O’Neal that raised eyebrows, especially given his four NBA championships, multiple MVP awards, and overwhelming presence in the paint that defined an era of basketball.
O’Neal, who is accustomed to being on nearly every all-time greats list, was left off this particular roster, a move that left fans—and O’Neal himself—in disbelief.
Shaq’s Reaction: Shock and Humor
Never one to shy away from the spotlight, Shaquille O’Neal responded with a mix of shock and humor upon hearing about his exclusion from Obama’s dream team. Known for his playful personality and competitive spirit, O’Neal took to social media to address the snub, playfully expressing his disbelief.
“Barack left me off the list?” O’Neal quipped in a video, raising an eyebrow with his signature grin. “I guess I’ll just have to go win another championship in retirement.”
Though his response was lighthearted, there’s no denying that O’Neal’s omission has struck a chord with fans, many of whom consider him one of the most dominant centers to ever play the game. Shaq’s absence from Obama’s list is particularly surprising given that many believe no all-time NBA lineup is complete without his presence in the paint.
Fans Weigh In: A Heated Debate
Obama’s “Starting Five” quickly became a hot topic of debate on social media, with fans weighing in on whether Shaquille O’Neal should have made the cut. Supporters of O’Neal pointed to his unparalleled dominance during his prime, his ability to change the game from the post, and his multiple championships with the Los Angeles Lakers and Miami Heat.
Others, however, defended Obama’s choices, noting that the players he selected represent a perfect blend of basketball greatness, versatility, and influence on the game. While Shaq’s dominance is unquestioned, fans argued that other players, such as Kareem Abdul-Jabbar or Magic Johnson, offer a more complete package in terms of basketball IQ, leadership, and longevity.
The debate ultimately comes down to personal preference, but the omission of a player as iconic as Shaquille O’Neal from an all-time lineup is sure to continue fueling discussions for years to come.
Obama’s Influence in Sports Culture
Barack Obama has long been known as a basketball fan and cultural icon, frequently weighing in on sports matters and even playing pick-up games with NBA stars during his time in office. His love for the game has given him a unique platform to discuss the sport, and his “Starting Five” has carried significant weight due to his reputation as an informed and engaged sports fan.
While Obama’s picks have generated controversy, they also reflect his appreciation for the history of the game. The former president has always emphasized the importance of teamwork, leadership, and impact on and off the court, factors that likely played into his decision-making process for his dream lineup.
Conclusion: A Debate That Will Rage On
Barack Obama’s omission of Shaquille O’Neal from his NBA “Starting Five” has left fans and sports figures alike debating the merits of such a choice. While O’Neal remains an undisputed legend, Obama’s selections of players like Michael Jordan and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar speak to the complexity and subjectivity of choosing an all-time greats lineup.
As the conversation continues, one thing is clear: Shaquille O’Neal’s absence from Obama’s list has reignited the timeless debate about who truly belongs in the pantheon of basketball’s greatest players.
And in true Shaq fashion, he’s likely to have the last laugh, as his legacy in the sport remains as towering as ever—whether or not he makes Obama’s cut.
