NBA – After Shaquille O’Neal’s controversial remarks, Wembanyama breaks his silence and takes a shot at Shaq!

Par Mathieu Seguin | Rédacteur sport

Victor Wembanyama shows neither disrespect nor lack of wit. Since arriving in the NBA, the French star has impressed as much with his maturity as with his game. Always composed in front of the media, he nevertheless doesn’t hesitate to respond to criticism when he feels it’s necessary.

Wembanyama was recently a guest on Cold As Balls, the show hosted by Kevin Hart, where a well-known NBA name came up: Shaquille O’Neal. The former Lakers legend has often made headlines in recent years for his criticisms of the new generation. Just weeks ago, Shaq claimed that “today’s NBA is too soft.”

This recurring narrative hasn’t pleased all the young players. Known for his frequent critiques of players like Rudy Gobert and Ben Simmons, Shaq’s latest remarks came as no surprise. Asked to respond—especially as a representative of the new generation of big men—Wembanyama answered tactfully but honestly.

Victor Wembanyama takes a jab at Shaquille O’Neal:

Wembanyama : ““Shaq has always been one of my favorite players, but one of the journalists I like the least.”

This is a subtle way of showing respect for Shaq as a player and a person, but much less so for his role as a commentator, who is often accused of targeting current stars too harshly. It’s refreshing to see some players willing to push back.

This statement did not go unnoticed. Wembanyama isn’t the first to call out Shaq’s sometimes excessive criticisms; players like Ja Morant, Rudy Gobert, and Joel Embiid have also publicly challenged some of the Hall of Famer’s comments. The Frenchman’s response fits into a broader generational clash.

Yet despite the playful jab, Wembanyama maintains deep respect for the league’s legends. He recently shared that he’s had lengthy conversations with Nikola Jokic and takes careful notes from greats like LeBron James and Kevin Durant. Through these interactions, he aims to build a lasting career inspired by the best, while fully embracing his own identity in an often critical environment. This attitude confirms that he’s not only a phenomenon on the court but also a rising leader.

It wouldn’t be surprising if “The Big Cactus” responds in the coming days. Meanwhile, Wembanyama stays focused, determined to write his own NBA story while continuing to learn—even from those he considers among his “least favorite journalists.”