Philadelphia 76ers star LeBron James has drawn criticism from some fans for joining another championship contender late in his career, but NBA Hall of Famer Shaquille O’Neal believes that narrative misses the point.
Speaking on SiriusXM NBA Radio, O’Neal defended James’ decision to sign with the 76ers, saying he has no issue with the four-time NBA champion putting himself in position to compete for another title during his 24th NBA season.
O’Neal rejected the idea that James’ latest move should be labeled as “ring chasing.”
“I don’t blame him for trying to get with a team where he can get another championship. People call it ring chasing, I call it ring continuance.”
The Hall of Fame center expanded on his reasoning, arguing that every player should seek the best opportunity to compete for a championship, especially one with James’ résumé.
“He already has four rings. It’s funny the people that don’t have rings, ‘Oh, he’s ring chasing.’ You always want to put yourself in a position to win a championship. So, he has four and he’s done it the right way. He’s done it his way. Now on you’re on your way out you can get with a team that’s got some players to get one or two more, I would do it.”
“People call [LeBron choosing Philly] ring chasing, I call it ring continuance”
@Shaq on how he views LeBron’s move to the 76ers
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Shaquille O’Neal backs LeBron James’ decision to join the 76ers
James signed with Philadelphia after one of the most closely watched free agency periods in recent NBA history. The 41-year-old reportedly received interest from several contenders before ultimately choosing the 76ers, where he joins Tyrese Maxey, Joel Embiid, and Jaylen Brown in Philadelphia’s pursuit of an NBA championship.
O’Neal has been vocal about the 76ers throughout the offseason and has consistently expressed optimism about the franchise’s outlook following James’ arrival. His latest comments reinforce the belief that James’ decision was less about adding to his legacy and more about maximizing his remaining opportunities to compete for another title.
With James entering his record-setting 24th NBA season, expectations in Philadelphia will be high as the 76ers look to capitalize on one of the biggest acquisitions of the offseason.
Philadelphia 76ers star LeBron James has drawn criticism from some fans for joining another championship contender late in his career, but NBA Hall of Famer Shaquille O’Neal believes that narrative misses the point. Speaking on SiriusXM NBA Radio, O’Neal defended James’ decision to sign with the 76ers, saying he has no issue with the four-time NBA champion putting himself in position to compete for another title during his 24th NBA season.