Shaquille O’Neal Reveals Explosive Clash With Pat Riley That Led To Shocking Trade The Very Next Day
Shaquille O’Neal and Pat Riley (Photo By Imagn Images)
Shaquille O’Neal has never been one to shy away from expressing himself. Throughout his legendary NBA career and into retirement, the Los Angeles Lakers icon has remained a bold personality. His willingness to speak his mind has fueled memorable rivalries and controversies.
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Among these clashes, his rivalry with former NBA star Dwight Howard once stood out as one of the most publicized. For years, fans watched the two big men trade words. However, time eventually softened their feud and led to a reconciliation. Recently, Shaq revealed that he directed his fiery nature beyond just rival players.
On the Straight Game podcast, O’Neal opened up about a past confrontation with Miami Heat president and then-head coach Pat Riley. Shaq described how a seemingly small incident turned into a major turning point in his career.
“One day, Jason Williams came late. Remember, we used to have that clock? Jason Williams came half a second late, and he was like, ‘Hey man, you need to get out.’ And I told him, ‘Nah, he’s not getting out,’” Shaq said.
Shaq on Pat Riley: “He wanted to kick me out of practice… I told him ‘Make me leave then’…
I got traded the next day.” 💀 pic.twitter.com/5PM6JSg5aF
— Straight Game Podcast (@straightgamepod) August 23, 2025
What followed was a heated exchange between the two strong-willed figures. According to O’Neal, Riley wasted no time in making a drastic decision to trade him.
“Then he said, ‘Well, you get out,’ and I said, ‘Motherf***, put me out.’ So we got into a little scuffle, and the next day I was traded,” he added.
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Shaquille O’Neal And Dwight Howard Reunite At The Hall Of Fame
Shaquille O’Neal (Image Credits: Imagn)
While past clashes have defined parts of his career, O’Neal’s relationship with Dwight Howard has now come full circle. With Howard set to be enshrined in the Basketball Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2025, Shaq confirmed that he will play a special role in the milestone.
Reports indicate that O’Neal will serve as one of Howard’s official presenters at the Hall of Fame induction. Shaq will join an esteemed group of presenters, including Dennis Rodman, Robert Parish, Dominique Wilkins, and Patrick Ewing.
The induction ceremony is scheduled for the weekend of September 5th and 6th, 2025.
