Jermaine O’Neal Quotes

Basketball player
USA
1978

Jermaine O’Neal is a former professional basketball player and current sports analyst. He played 18 seasons in the NBA, most notably with the Indiana Pacers and the Phoenix Suns. He was a six-time NBA All-Star, and was named to the All-NBA Third Team in 2001. O’Neal was also a member of the 2004 NBA Champion Detroit Pistons. After his retirement from basketball, O’Neal became a sports analyst for Fox Sports 1, and has also written two books, “Jermaine O’Neal: Life on and off the Court” and “Jermaine O’Neal: My Life, My Journey”.Read Less

I think blocking a shot at a crucial point of the game is the most incredible feeling. Feraz Zeid, January 18, 2024, Jermaine O'Neal, Block, Games, 0

- Jermaine O'Neal

Basketball player

· USA

Block
Games

I’m a very emotional player. I use emotion because my team feeds off it. Feraz Zeid, January 18, 2024, Jermaine O'Neal, Emotional, Player, Team, 0

- Jermaine O'Neal

Basketball player

· USA

If I can go to the U.S. Army and fight the war at 18 why can’t you play basketball for 48 minutes? Feraz Zeid, January 18, 2024, Jermaine O'Neal, Army, Basketball, War, 0

- Jermaine O'Neal

Basketball player

· USA

If we win, I don’t care if I get 20 boards or five boards. Feraz Zeid, June 28, 2023, Jermaine O'Neal, Boards, Care, Winning, 0

- Jermaine O'Neal

Basketball player

· USA

Jermaine O’Neal Career Highlights

O’Neal was drafted straight out of high school in the 1996 NBA draft by the Portland Trail Blazers, making him the youngest player in NBA history at the time.
He spent four seasons with the Trail Blazers before being traded to the Indiana Pacers in 2000.
During his time with the Pacers, O’Neal became a dominant force on the court, earning six consecutive NBA All-Star selections from 2002 to 2007.
In the 2003-2004 season, he led the Pacers to the Eastern Conference Finals and was named the NBA’s Most Improved Player.
O’Neal also had stints with the Toronto Raptors, Miami Heat, Boston Celtics, Phoenix Suns, and Golden State Warriors before retiring in 2014.
He finished his career with over 13,000 points, 7,000 rebounds, and 1,800 blocks, making him one of the most statistically successful players in NBA history.

Key Contributions by Jermaine O’Neal

O’Neal was known for his exceptional athleticism and versatility on the court. Standing at 6’11”, he had the ability to play both power forward and center positions.
He was a dominant force in the paint, known for his strong post moves and defensive prowess. O’Neal was a three-time NBA All-Defensive Team selection.
O’Neal was also a great leader and mentor to younger players. He was known for his work ethic and dedication to the game, setting a great example for his teammates.
Off the court, O’Neal was actively involved in various charitable causes, including his own foundation, the Jermaine O’Neal Foundation, which focused on providing educational and athletic opportunities for underprivileged youth.

What Sets Jermaine O’Neal Apart

O’Neal’s ability to have a successful career in the NBA straight out of high school is a testament to his natural talent and hard work.
He was one of the few players in the NBA who could effectively guard and score against the legendary Shaquille O’Neal (no relation), earning him the nickname “The Other O’Neal.”
O’Neal’s longevity in the NBA, playing for 18 seasons, is a testament to his dedication and commitment to the game.
He was also known for his professionalism and sportsmanship, earning the NBA’s Sportsmanship Award in 2013.

Takeaways

Jermaine O’Neal’s career highlights and key contributions make him one of the most successful and respected players in NBA history.
His versatility, athleticism, and leadership skills set him apart from other players in the league.
O’Neal’s dedication to the game and his community make him a role model for aspiring athletes.
His legacy in the NBA will continue to inspire future generations of basketball players.

Other People