Former NBA player Shaquille O’Neal has openly criticized the league’s modern style of play, particularly its heavy reliance on three-pointers. O’Neal attributes this strategic shift to the influence of Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry, whose success has inspired many teams to adopt a similar approach.
O’Neal has voiced concerns about the direction the NBA has taken in recent years, even linking the decline in viewership to this three-point-heavy strategy. According to Shaquille O’Neal, the lack of variety in team strategies has made the game less appealing to fans.
While the NBA has seen a drop in viewership, it’s crucial to consider additional factors contributing to this trend. The rise of diverse entertainment options and evolving consumption habits among audiences have played a significant role, alongside strategic changes on the court.
“I think everybody’s looking at the same thing, and Steph Curry and those guys messed it up,” Shaq said on The Big Podcast with Shaq. “I don’t mind Golden State back in the day shooting threes, but every team is not a three-point shooter, so why [does] everybody have the same strategy? I think viewership will continue to go down unless we switch things back up.“
Shaq’s legacy and the evolution of NBA strategy
O’Neal, celebrated for his dominance in the paint, has often criticized the league’s current three-point-centric style of play. However, the NBA’s evolution cannot be dismissed. Players like Stephen Curry have revolutionized offensive strategies, placing a greater emphasis on spacing and long-range shooting, which has fundamentally reshaped the game.
The NBA’s response and future outlook
In response to critiques of the modern style, the NBA has adjusted rules to encourage more physical play. Despite this, implementing a cap on three-point attempts is unlikely, given the integral role this strategy now plays in the league’s identity.
Ultimately, the NBA‘s future success will depend on its ability to balance innovation with entertainment. While the game’s style continues to evolve, the league must remain focused on delivering a product that captivates both current fans and new audiences in an increasingly competitive entertainment landscape.