Shaq Reveals Best Teammate He Ever Had

Penny Hardaway’s basketball prime flourished with the Orlando Magic, where he formed a dynamic duo with Shaquille O’Neal.

Selected No. 3 overall by the Golden State Warriors in the 1993 NBA Draft, Hardaway found himself traded to the Magic, setting the stage for a partnership that would electrify the league.

The Shaq-Penny tandem quickly became a force to be reckoned with, propelling the Magic to new heights during their brief but impactful tenure together.

Their on-court chemistry was undeniable, leaving fans and analysts alike to wonder what might have been had their collaboration lasted longer.

In a recent episode of “The Big Podcast,” O’Neal may have surprised listeners when asked about his best teammate.

Rather than naming Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant, as many might have expected, O’Neal chose Hardaway instead.

“The best for me to play with was Penny Hardaway cause Penny Hardaway was super unselfish. He gave me the ball every time,” O’Neal said.

“Kobe was the meanest. The best for me to play with was Penny Hardaway cause Penny Hardaway was super unselfish. He gave me the ball every time.”

– Shaq on who the best teammate he ever had 👀

Watch our new episode with Leonard Founette here: https://t.co/XtZMHxZf0w pic.twitter.com/eT8KXtngpT

— The Big Podcast (@bigpodwithshaq) October 16, 2024

O’Neal went on to discuss his relationships with other notable teammates.

He described his partnership with Bryant as competitive, with the superstars constantly pushing each other while striving for team success.

Regarding Dwyane Wade, O’Neal acknowledged the younger player’s rising star with the Miami Heat, telling him, “You’re the man. And I’m just going to be your hitter.”

Though O’Neal went on to win four NBA championships, Hardaway never secured a title.

Had they remained teammates, and Hardaway avoided injury, multiple championships could have been within reach.

This what-if scenario continues to intrigue basketball fans and pundits to this day, serving as a reminder of the potential that was left unfulfilled.

NEXT: 
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope Has Honest Admission About Being With Magic