Shaquille O’Neal has shared his personal Mount Rushmore of the Los Angeles Lakers’ all-time top 10 players, putting his own legacy in context with the franchise’s legends.

What did Shaq reveal?

On his social media platforms, Shaquille O’Neal posted a list of the Lakers’ 10 greatest players ever. The Mount Rushmore he included featured Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Kobe Bryant, and himself. The post sparked immediate debate among fans and analysts alike.

Shaq’s list spans eras, from the Showtime Lakers of the 1980s to the three-peat teams he led in the early 2000s. He also named Jerry West, Elgin Baylor, Wilt Chamberlain, James Worthy, Pau Gasol, and LeBron James among the top 10.

Why this matters for Shaq and the Lakers

For Shaquille O’Neal, the post isn’t just nostalgia—it’s a statement about legacy. His inclusion on the Mount Rushmore cements his place among the franchise’s immortals, alongside Magic and Kobe. The Lakers have won 17 titles, and Shaq’s three rings in purple and gold anchor his claim to greatness.

The timing adds weight. With the Lakers chasing another championship, Shaq’s endorsement of LeBron James—now 39—highlights his respect for modern stars. Fans still debate whether current players like Anthony Davis or Victor Wembanyama belong in the top tier.

How the list was received

Reactions poured in fast. Lakers greats like Magic Johnson and James Worthy praised Shaq’s picks. Some fans argued for inclusion of Derek Fisher or Byron Scott, while others defended Shaq’s choices as a personal, not exhaustive, ranking.

ESPN’s Lakers beat reporter noted the post went viral within hours, racking up millions of views. Shaq’s social media presence—nearly 40 million followers across platforms—ensures his opinions carry weight beyond the court.

What comes next for Shaq and the Lakers

Shaq’s list won’t end the debate, but it fuels it. The Lakers are in the mix for a top seed in 2026, with LeBron and AD still leading the way. Shaq’s role as a pundit and analyst keeps him in the conversation, even 15 years after his last game.

For the Lakers, the post serves as a reminder of their rich history. Shaq’s Mount Rushmore isn’t official, but it’s a powerful snapshot of the players who defined the franchise—and the one who helped define its modern era.