Shaquille O'Neal recently expressed his opinion on the WNBA, stating it's like watching high school basketball. He cited the lack of dunks as a major difference between the WNBA and the NBA.
What did Shaquille O'Neal say?
Shaquille O'Neal made these comments on Angel Reese's podcast, "Unapologetically Angel". He enjoyed the product but was blunt about why fewer people watch the WNBA.
O'Neal said, "I don't wanna use the B-word. But unless there are certain people playing, it's just like you're watching a high school game." He also mentioned that the NBA's game is different due to alley-oops, throwing off the glass, and fast break threes.
Why does it matter for the WNBA?
The WNBA has experienced rising viewership in recent years, with attendance reaching record levels and national television audiences continuing to climb. Despite this, Shaquille O'Neal's comments highlight the stylistic differences between the WNBA and the NBA.
Only eight players have dunked the ball in the WNBA since its inception in 1997. Brittney Griner has done it the most, with 27 dunks in her WNBA career. She also holds the NCAA record for most dunks in the women's division with 18.
What's next for the WNBA?
The WNBA's future looks bright, with a new crop of women's basketball stars transcending the game. Shaquille O'Neal's comments may spark debate, but they also acknowledge the undeniable ascension of the WNBA.
O'Neal's main argument points to the lack of dunks in the WNBA, which is an undeniable truth that haunts the women's game. However, the WNBA has proven that it can still be an exciting and entertaining league to watch, with players like Brittney Griner and Candace Parker leading the way.
The WNBA will continue to grow and improve, with a focus on developing its players and increasing its viewership. Shaquille O'Neal's comments may be seen as criticism, but they also highlight the potential for the WNBA to become an even more popular and exciting league.