Dennis Rodman is considered one of the greatest defenders in NBA history. While The Worm was an eccentric figure off the court, there is no denying how prolific a player he was on the court. And there is no better example of his dominance than when he shut down Shaquille O’Neal.
During a game in the 1995-96 NBA season, Shaquille O’Neal’s Orlando Magic were playing the Chicago Bulls. O’Neal and the Magic had knocked out the Bulls from the playoffs the previous year, but now the Bulls had Rodman.
Rodman guarded Shaq in the interior, with many expecting him to steamroll past Rodman as Shaq did to many others. However, Rodman played such intense and gritty defense that O’Neal was not able to overcome and deferred to his teammates on several occasions.
While Rodman was much smaller than Shaq, he used his relentless pressure and ability to be a pest to bother Shaq, making him uncomfortable to the point where he didn’t want to take the ball and drive to the basket. Very few have been able to handle O’Neal the way Dennis Rodman was able to during this game.
O’Neal And Rodman Have A Unique History
Shaquille O’Neal and Dennis Rodman do have a little bit of a contentious relationship. The two once famously began brawling in a game between the Lakers and the Bulls and had to be separated by Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen.
Rodman believes that Shaq holds a grudge against him because he is the only player who was able to limit his dominance, something other players just can’t claim to have done.
On the other hand, O’Neal lamented Dennis Rodman’s work ethic and dedication, even labeling Rodman the worst teammate he has ever had. It’s safe to say the two won’t be exchanging Christmas cards anytime soon.
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