“Have You Heard of Michael Jordan?”: Before Choosing LSU, Shaquille O’Neal Was Put Off by Dean Smith’s Obsession With His Old Talent

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“Have You Heard of Michael Jordan?”: Before Choosing LSU, Shaquille O’Neal Was Put Off by Dean Smith’s Obsession With His Old Talent

2024/04/02 Report

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Shaquille O'Neal, the highly sought-after high school basketball player, had the opportunity to choose where he wanted to commit to playing in college. Although he visited the University of North Carolina, Shaq decided to commit to Louisiana State University due to coach Dean Smith's behavior.

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In his biography, O'Neal revealed that Smith's arrogance and focus on his previous achievements put him off. O'Neal also felt that he wasn't Smith's first choice, as another center had already committed to playing for UNC.

Ultimately, O'Neal wanted to be the first and chose LSU instead.

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