Shaquille O’Neal has dominated his position as a professional basketball player. He has won professional championships with two different teams. And it has been an annual tradition to see him play in the NBA All-Star Game. However, this year that streak ends.

Shaq has played in fourteen consecutive All-Star games. His coach, Pat Riley, believes that Shaquille O’Neal deserves to be part of this year’s All-Star game. Shaq disagrees:

“…”As the general of this squad, I wouldn’t deserve to be an All-Star,” O’Neal said Friday evening. “And if they gave me the spot, I wouldn’t take it, because I don’t want to be given anything.”"

link: Riley suggests Shaq should be given All-Star role; O’Neal disagrees

Because of his skill, speed and size, Shaquille O’Neal has faced double-teams for most of his professional career. Now, he faces the most formidable double team: age and injury. Shaq believes that he can come back and play. It is pride. At some point, Shaq’s mind will be making promises that his body cannot keep.

Catherine Forsythe

[tag]nba, shaquille o’neal, all-star game, pat riley, age, injury, pride[/tag]