Shaq Says Knicks’ Title Was ‘A Lot of Luck’
Podcast remarks prompting fan and co-host pushback focus the debate on whether decisive moments or sustained playoff dominance delivered the championship.
Overview
- On Saturday Shaquille O’Neal told listeners on The Big Podcast that the New York Knicks “had a lot of luck” winning the 2025–26 NBA title.
- O’Neal pointed to three late-game events as evidence: OG Anunoby’s Game 4 tip‑in, De’Aaron Fox’s decision to try to score with eight seconds left, and San Antonio’s 29‑point collapse.
- Co-host Adam Lefkoe and guest Iman Shumpert pushed back on the show and fans responded online, arguing the Knicks’ long playoff run and Jalen Brunson’s performance show the title was earned.
- Supporters cited New York’s postseason record, a 13‑game stretch with one loss, sweeps of Philadelphia and Cleveland, a 3‑0 road mark in the Finals, and a record playoff point differential in rebuttal.
- There has been no formal response from the Knicks and the dispute has mainly played out in media coverage and on social platforms, reinforcing debate over whether isolated plays or sustained team performance decide championships.