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[Saba Sports News] Shaquille O’Neal isn’t buying the criticism surrounding Luka Doncic’s conditioning. Amid reports that the Dallas Mavericks hesitated on a $345 million super-max extension due to concerns over Luka’s fitness, Shaq weighed in with his own perspective—one shaped by his legendary career and unconventional training habits.
On Inside the NBA, Shaq revealed that he never worked out during the summer, instead opting to play his way into shape once the season started.
“That was my method. It worked for me. There are different ways to get it done. You win three straight championships, you’re a first-ballot Hall of Famer—that’s one way. I did it my way, and I’m happy with it.”
When asked about Luka, Shaq pushed back on the idea that Doncic is out of shape.
“He doesn’t look out of shape to me. What does ‘out of shape’ even mean? Are we talking body fat? A six-pack? Because last time I checked, ‘fat Luka’ is still better than 99.9% of guards in the league.”
Shaq’s career proves that elite dominance isn’t always tied to peak physical conditioning. Though he entered many seasons less than ideal shape, his sheer talent and strength made him an unstoppable force.
However, the NBA has evolved—today’s game demands more speed and endurance, especially for perimeter players like Doncic.
Even so, Luka’s track record speaks for itself: five straight All-NBA First Team selections, a scoring title, an NBA Finals run—achievements that suggest fitness concerns might be overblown.
Shaq’s message? Dominance comes in different forms. Whether it’s “Diesel” Shaq or “Fat Luka,” results matter more than body fat percentages.