Shaquille O’Neal attempted to bestow some wisdom upon Jaylen Brown after the Celtics clinched a 105-98 triumph in their second matchup against the Mavericks on Sunday, though it unfolded somewhat awkwardly.
During a postgame discussion on NBA TV, Shaquille took the chance to deliver some bewildering advice to the Celtics’ sharpshooter.
“I’m about to reveal some top-secret, G-14 classified information because this is likely the last time you’re gonna see me,” Shaquille told Brown. “Ponder on this riddle: don’t fixate on the petty trophies. Just do what it takes. It doesn’t matter who’s who or what they say who is which. This isn’t the time for those distractions. Just perform what’s necessary, and do it excellently.”
In response to Shaq, Brown maintained, “I’ve got it. Loud and clear.”
However, when pressed on if he actually deciphered Shaq’s cryptic words, Brown admitted with a laugh, “No.”
Luckily, Shaquille went on to clarify his initially confusing statement for both the audience and a puzzled Brown.
“Okay, I’ll put it plainly,” Shaquille elaborated. “They attempt to stir up rivalry amongst you and a teammate by arguing about superiority. What I’m saying is, overlook the insignificant labels. ‘Who’s the head honcho?’ That’s pointless. Whether it’s Kobe or Shaq leading the charge. It’s inconsequential. I’m laying claim to my 40 points. Kobe’s racking up his 39. Let’s go secure those championship rings. This is what I’m essentially trying to impart.”
It should be mentioned that neither Tatum nor Brown has been exceptionally outstanding at the beginning of this series. Both have experienced ups and downs in their shot-making efficiency.
Across the first duo of games, Tatum’s averages are disclosed as 17 points, ten rebounds, and 8.5 assists, lobbing at a rate of 4-14 from the three-point line and converting 12-38 from the field altogether.
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