Key Highlights:
- Shaquille O’Neal said European basketball is “a little better than NBA basketball” ahead of Žalgiris’ EuroLeague game against Olympiacos in Kaunas.
- O’Neal praised European players’ fundamentals, tactical intelligence and intensity while contrasting them with the NBA’s athletic style.
- The NBA legend also paid tribute to Arvydas Sabonis and Jonas Valančiūnas during his visit to Lithuania as a NordVPN ambassador.
Shaquille O’Neal praises European basketball in Kaunas
Shaquille O’Neal has arrived in Kaunas to experience the intensity of EuroLeague basketball firsthand, but his visit to Lithuania has already generated controversy in the United States. Before heading to Žalgirio Arena for the matchup between Žalgiris and Olympiacos, the reigning European champion, the four-time NBA champion made a clear comparison between the two competitions.
“I know European basketball is a little better than NBA basketball. I know I’m going to get a lot of criticism for saying that”, said O’Neal before attending the game. His comments represented a notable public endorsement of European basketball from one of the most recognizable figures in NBA history.
O’Neal explained that he values the consistency and competitiveness of EuroLeague play. “In the EuroLeague, tough basketball is played in all 38 games. In the NBA, there is a bit of relaxation until the All-Star break or the playoffs,” he stated.
The former Lakers, Magic, Heat, Suns and Celtics player has attended only one European basketball game in person. He said he was eager to see whether the atmosphere in Kaunas matched the reputation he had heard about the Žalgirio Arena crowd.
“It was crazy. I’m looking forward to seeing how intense and crazy this game will be.”
O’Neal highlights European fundamentals and basketball intelligence
O’Neal said the main difference between European and American basketball is not necessarily raw athletic ability, but the way players understand and execute the game. He reiterated a view he has expressed previously:
I have always said that Europeans have much stronger basketball fundamentals than American players
He also contrasted the physical tools commonly associated with American players with the tactical approach he sees in Europe:
Americans may have more talent and jump higher, but Europeans first play basketball with their heads, while we like to use our athletic abilities
In his formal comments, O’Neal expressed the comparison this way: “I’ve always said that Europeans have much stronger basketball fundamentals than American players”, he noted. He then added, “Americans may have more talent and jump higher, but Europeans play basketball with their heads first, while we like to use our athletic abilities”
Shaquille O’Neal pays tribute to Arvydas Sabonis and Jonas Valančiūnas
O’Neal’s trip to Lithuania also gave him an opportunity to recognize two prominent European centers who made lasting impressions in the NBA: Arvydas Sabonis and Jonas Valančiūnas.
O’Neal recalled his memorable battles with Sabonis and said he hoped to meet the former Lithuanian star again in his home country. “I hope to give him a hug when I see him… This will be a matter of respect and love. When it happens, I’ll tell him: ‘Thank you’”.
He also praised Valančiūnas, highlighting the Lithuanian center’s 14 years in the NBA and his ability to use his size and strength effectively around the basket.
O’Neal later repeated his tribute to Sabonis in slightly different wording: “I hope to give Sabonis a hug when I see him… This will be about respect and love. When it happens, I’ll say to him: ‘Thank you’”
O’Neal shares his formula for winning in Europe
To conclude his assessment of European basketball, O’Neal outlined the team-building formula he believes can lead to success in the EuroLeague. His approach centers on star power, complementary roles and commitment on defense.
“You need one or two great players and build the team around them. Defensive specialists, shooters and, above all, wanting it more than anyone else.”
O’Neal visited Kaunas as an ambassador for NordVPN, but his appearance at Žalgirio Arena quickly became more than a promotional stop. His remarks amounted to a public defense of European basketball over the NBA, delivered by one of the greatest legends of the American league.
Why This Matters
Shaquille O’Neal’s comments underline the continuing debate over the differences between NBA and EuroLeague basketball. His assessment focuses on the EuroLeague’s consistent game-to-game intensity, emphasis on fundamentals and tactical discipline, while acknowledging the athletic advantages often associated with American players.
The remarks are also significant because O’Neal has direct experience of both basketball cultures and competed against major European stars during his NBA career. His praise for Arvydas Sabonis and Jonas Valančiūnas places the Lithuania visit within the broader history of European players who have influenced the NBA.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Shaquille O’Neal say about European basketball?
Shaquille O’Neal said, “I know European basketball is a little better than NBA basketball. I know I’m going to get a lot of criticism for saying that”. He also praised European fundamentals and tactical understanding.
Why was Shaquille O’Neal in Kaunas?
O’Neal was in Kaunas as a NordVPN ambassador and attended the EuroLeague game between Žalgiris and Olympiacos at Žalgirio Arena.
Which European players did Shaquille O’Neal praise?
O’Neal paid tribute to former Lithuanian center Arvydas Sabonis, whom he faced during his NBA career, and praised Jonas Valančiūnas for his 14 years in the NBA and his strength near the rim.
