When you think of dominant players in NBA history, one name that immediately comes to mind is Shaquille O’Neal. Standing at a staggering 7 feet 1 inch tall and weighing over 300 pounds, Shaq was an unstoppable force on the basketball court. He had the strength, size, and skill to dominate his opponents, but there was one area of his game that was a glaring weakness – free throws.
Throughout his illustrious career, Shaq attempted a total of 11,252 free throws. While that number alone is impressive, what’s even more remarkable is the fact that he missed 5,317 of them. That’s right, Shaq missed more free throws than most players have even attempted.
To put this statistic into perspective, only 72 players in NBA history have attempted more free throws than the number Shaq missed. When you consider the number of legendary players that have graced the NBA hardwood over the years, this fact becomes even more mind-boggling.
Some of the players who attempted more free throws than Shaq missed include iconic names like Wilt Chamberlain, Michael Jordan, LeBron James, Karl Malone, and Kobe Bryant, to name just a few. These are players who consistently displayed incredible skill and accuracy at the free-throw line, unlike Shaq whose free-throw shooting was often a source of frustration for his coaches, teammates, and fans.
Despite his struggles at the free-throw line, Shaq still managed to have an incredible career. He won four NBA championships, was named the NBA Finals MVP three times, and earned 15 All-Star selections. His dominance in the paint and ability to overpower opponents made him one of the most feared players of his era.
However, it’s impossible to ignore the impact that his poor free-throw shooting had on his overall game. Opposing teams often employed a strategy called “Hack-a-Shaq,” intentionally fouling him in an attempt to send him to the free-throw line, knowing that he had a high likelihood of missing.
While Shaq’s missed free throws are undoubtedly a significant part of his legacy, they should not overshadow his many accomplishments. He revolutionized the center position with his unique blend of size, strength, and athleticism. His larger-than-life personality and charisma made him a fan favorite, and he remains one of the most beloved figures in NBA history.
In conclusion, the fact that only 72 players in NBA history have attempted more free throws than the 5,317 Shaquille O’Neal missed is a testament to both his dominance on the court and his struggles at the free-throw line. Despite his shortcomings in this aspect of the game, Shaq’s impact on the NBA cannot be denied. His legacy will always be remembered, both for his incredible achievements and his unforgettable missed free throws.
Source: ftw.usatoday.com
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