Shaq considers Caitlin Clark the real deal,' dismissing Barkley's pettiness.

By Saloni

O'Neal is the first to praise Chicago Sky rookie Angel Reese's accomplishments. To Reese, the Hall of Famer and former LSU star is like a parent.   

However, NBA legend O'Neal revealed something about Reese's biggest rival: O'Neal called Clark “the real deal.”   

On Aug. 30, O'Neal watched Reese's Sky play Clark's Fever in the 2024 season finale in Chicago. O'Neal cheered Reese's Reebok basketball shoe debut.  

The Fever defeated Chicago 100-81 behind Clark's career-high 31 points and 12 assists. Reese scored 10 and grabbed 11. Clark impressed O’Neal. When I see something on TV, I want to see it in person.  

It was in person, O'Neal stated of Clark. "She can play..." In basketball, she makes all the correct passes, gets everyone engaged, and shoots like Steph Curry.”   

O'Neal forecasts a Reese-Clark 2024 Rookie of the Year race. Clark is expected to win a landslide after beating the Sky in three of four games and claiming a playoff position two weeks ago.   

Another reason: Reese confirmed over the weekend that she would miss the season due to a wrist injury requiring surgery. When she announced, Reese, the No. 7 choice in the 2024 draft, led the league in rebounding (13.1 per game).   

Since their success has brought record attendance, ratings, and public attention to the league, O'Neal suggested it's time for another shift.   

who has had double-digit sacks in each of the last four seasons, coming to practice, but Reddick has the final say.