Jordan, Kobe top Shaq’s rankings as debate reignites ahead of Netflix series
As the NBA GOAT debate continues to evolve with each generation, Hall of Famer Shaquille O’Neal has added his own voice to the conversation. And his rankings are already drawing attention.
In a newly released clip from his upcoming Netflix series Power Moves with Shaquille O’Neal, the four-time NBA champion revealed his personal list of the top 10 players in league history. Unsurprisingly, Michael Jordan holds the top spot, but the rest of the list brings a few surprises.
Shaq’s Top 10 All-Time Players:
- Michael Jordan
- Kobe Bryant
- LeBron James
- Magic Johnson
- Bill Russell
- Wilt Chamberlain
- Larry Bird
- Hakeem Olajuwon
- Tim Duncan
- Julius Erving
Originally, O’Neal had himself at No. 10, but later removed his own name in favor of Dr. J — a decision that quickly sparked fan discussions across social media.
LeBron Still in the Mix
Currently ranked third on the list, LeBron James remains the only active player in Shaq’s top 10.
At 39 years old and still producing at a high level for the Los Angeles Lakers, James’ standing could climb depending on how the final chapter of his career unfolds.
The four-time MVP is already the NBA’s all-time leading scorer and continues to chase more postseason success — adding weight to his GOAT résumé with each passing year.
Notable Omissions: Kareem Left Off
Perhaps the most talked-about omission from Shaq’s list is Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.
The six-time NBA champion and league MVP, who held the all-time scoring title for decades before LeBron surpassed him, was notably absent from the ranking, prompting confusion from fans and analysts alike.
O’Neal didn’t offer an explanation in the clip, but the decision is sure to reignite debate about where Kareem belongs in the pantheon of greats.
GOAT Debate Far From Settled
While the top three of Jordan, Kobe, and LeBron reflect common themes in GOAT discussions, the order, and omissions, continue to highlight just how subjective the debate remains.
Each player’s era, dominance, and impact factor differently depending on the criteria.
With Power Moves debuting on Netflix June 4, more context around Shaq’s list may soon follow. And so will the reactions.
For now, LeBron’s place at No. 3 on a list crafted by one of the game’s most dominant centers is another testament to his enduring greatness.
