During a recent episode of the Draymond Green Show, former NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal and the host Draymond Green discussed Shaq’s first argument with the latter during their playing days. O’Neal mentioned that his first argument with Wade happened during the finals when his team was trailing by 0-2, and at the same time, Shaq was going through a divorce.

“D-Wade, our first argument was in the Finals. We go down 0-2. I’m declining as Shaq. Hey, I’m going through a divorce. I’m not Shaq. My first three guys are terrible and awful. So I pulled D-Wade in the room and said, ‘What the f**k you gonna do, man?” O’Neal said.

“I Wasn’t Trying to Fight”

O’Neal, also known as the Big Diesel, admits that he mistreated Wade, mentioning that he was not fighting with him; he was asking questions.

“Motherf***er, you want to be the man, what the f**k you gonna do?’ I wasn’t trying to fight; I was just asking questions. He had a look of relief like, ‘Oh, I can?’ So yeah, motherf***er, I got four people on me.’ And he said, ‘Okay, Shaq.’ And he went off.” O’Neal added.

Shaq’s argument did not affect Wade’s performance, and the latter delivered consecutive outstanding displays throughout their series. Additionally, Wade’s skills earned him MVP that season, and he was recognized as one of the most pivotal players in NBA playoff history.