“Dennis Scott made me. I was a 19-year-old kid who didn't know nothing” – Shaquille O'Neal on Dennis Scott's induction to Orlando Magic Hall of Fame
Shaquille O'Neal never forgets the people who have postively influenced his life and his NBA career. This doesn't just apply to his family and his All-Star teammates, but also to the key role players in his squads.
Less than a week ago, the Orlando Magic announced that Dennis Scott would be the 12th player of the organization to be inducted into their Hall of Fame. Scott spent seven seasons in Orlando as a key sharp-shooter for the squad. He also played a big part in their Finals run with O'Neal.
Magic say Dennis Scott will be inducted into the Magic Hall of Fame. https://t.co/PLkWxL4CaY
On the latest episode of The Big Podcast with Shaq, the big man shared how much 3-D has helped his career.
"Dennis Scott made me. I was a 19 year old kid who didn't know nothing. These guys taught me everything. Taught me how to be a leader," Shaq said.
"So, I'm glad the Orlando Magic is recognizing him. He made me who I am today. Listen, I owe him 95% of what I'm doing and what I've been doing because it was him."
I'm happy for D. I'm happy for his family. Been my best friend ever since we first saw each other in 1992. And he will, you know, continue to be my best friend. But it's probably five or six years too late."
Out of all of O'Neal's teammates, Scott is one of the few who has maintained a close relationship with the NBA Hall of Famer. The two spent four seasons together before Shaq moved to Los Angeles to start the Lakers' dynasty with Kobe Bryant.
Magic induct Shaquille O'Neal into their Hall of Fame. Shaq led franchise to its 1st NBA Finals appearance in 1995. http://t.co/Unu9JmhRir
Scott was one of the best NBA shooters before the three-pointer became popular. In his seven years with the Magic, the shooter averaged 14.8 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 2.3 assists. He made 42.2% of his field goals and 40.3% of his three-pointers.
Also read: Shaquille O'Neal mocks Dwight Howard for dominating in Taiwanese league: "This league reminds me of the Lifetime Fitness League"
Shaquille O'Neal's hatred for Dwight Howard isn't justified
Shaquille O'Neal has always had time to poke fun at anyone and anything he finds amusing. He's also known to be someone who isn't afraid to speak his mind, regardless of who he's talking about. This happened to centers like JaVale McGee and Rudy Gobert just a few years ago.
One former NBA center who has caught the other end of O'Neal's attacks over the years is Dwight Howard. No one really knows when or how it started, but many speculate that it has something to do with the "Superman" moniker. Howard is playing in a different league now, but Shaq hasn't stopped with his comments.
Howard recently debuted in Taiwan, but O'Neal didn't hold back in comparing his play with the Lifetime Fitness League. The 2020 champion responded and called the NBA legend a "hater," to which many agreed. Shaq responded by apologizing after getting a scolding from his mother.
Also read: Shaquille O'Neal says he got scolded by his mom for poking Dwight: "Mr Dwight Howard, I owe you apology and I will never hurt your feelings again"