Shaquille O’Neal was vocal in his criticism of Donovan Mitchell during the five-time All-Star guard’s tenure with the Utah Jazz. However, now that Mitchell is experiencing a fantastic season with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Shaq has completely changed his stance. He reflects on his previous comments and expresses a newfound appreciation for Mitchell’s talent.
During a recent episode of TNT’s pregame show for the Indiana Pacers vs. Cleveland Cavaliers, O’Neal stated that the Cavaliers are the best team in the East. Jalen Rose then interrupted, asking, “Over Boston?”
“I do. The way that this Donovan [Mitchell] kid is playing – I’ve been hard on [him] the last 3 years. Hard to the point to where people think I don’t like him,” O’Neal responded.
Shaq: "I think [the Cavs are] the best team in the East."
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) January 14, 2025
Jalen Rose: "Over Boston?"
Shaq: "I do. The way that this Donovan [Mitchell] kid is playing – I've been hard on [him] the last 3 years. Hard to the point to where people think I don't like him."pic.twitter.com/840PpfFhu3
In 2021, O’Neal publicly criticized Mitchell during his time with the Jazz. In an interview with Mitchell, he stated that he doesn’t possess the qualities necessary to advance to the next level. However, this season, Mitchell has changed many narratives about him with his consistently stellar performances.
Shaquille O’Neal Shares Insights On His Remarks About Donovan Mitchell
Mitchel delivered an impressive performance on the court against the Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. He scored 35 points, recorded 3 assists, and grabbed 9 rebounds in 31 minutes of play. This strong showing contributed to the Cavaliers’ 127-117 victory over the Pacers. During TNT’s pregame show, O’Neal discussed the reasons behind his criticism of Mitchell back in 2021.
“You know, when I like you, I’m on you. It may sound like I’m criticizing you, but I’m giving you tidbits of information. Information that I know firsthand. I played with some of the greats, and I helped mold some of the greats,” O’Neal said.
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The awkward postgame exchange was not the only instance in which O’Neal criticized Mitchell. Back in 2021, an artist on Instagram photoshopped an image of Mitchell dunking on O’Neal. O’Neal did not take it lightly and sent a strong message directly to the artist in response.
