Chat Transcript
CBS SportsLine.com
March 29, 2001

Shaq answered your questions during his live chat. (AP)

Shaq continues to dominate the league with 27.7 points (sixth best in NBA) and 12.7 rebounds a game (second best). His 2.8 blocks per game puts him fourth in the league and his 57.7-percent shooting percentage attests to his dominance.

Coming off a 1999-2000 season in which he collected the regular season, All-Star game AND NBA Finals MVP awards, Shaq has established himself as the league’s premier draw. Chat with this year’s leading Western Conference All-Star Game vote getter. Chat transcript below.

Question: What is your opinion on Phil Jackson's Triangle Offense?

Shaquille O'Neal: I think it is something that has been very, very effective for Phil and if done correctly can be a very dangerous offense.

Question: What will it take for the Lakers to win the Championship this year?

Shaquille O'Neal: Playing together, playing with intensity and having the same hunger as last year.

Question: What is the most important thing you've learned from Phil Jackson, both as a player and as a person?

Shaquille O'Neal: That he is a very focused individual and how not to panic, even during tough times.

Question: If you weren't playing basketball professionally, what would you do for a career?

Shaquille O'Neal: I would be a police officer. Or a sheriff.

Question: Would you ever consider going into coaching?

Shaquille O'Neal: No. Never.

Question: How difficult was the home loss to the Kings last night?

Shaquille O'Neal: It was very difficult. I felt we didn't execute, especially in the 3rd and 4th quarters. All they had to do was throw me the ball.

Question: What is your opinion about players coming out of school early to enter the NBA?

Shaquille O'Neal: I have no opinion. A person should do what is best for his or her family.

Question: Did you watch the NCAA Tournament? Who do you think will win?

Shaquille O'Neal: I haven't watched. LSU is not in it.

Question: How would you compare this year to last year's MVP Season?

Shaquille O'Neal: Last year I got more offensive opportunities.

Question: Shaq, you missed the All-Star game due to injury. How are you feeling now?

Shaquille O'Neal: It is still a little sore, but I am still good enough to do what I have been doing. 28-11-3

Question: The Media and fans get on you about your free throw shooting, does it bother you?

Shaquille O'Neal: No. Because I am still unstoppable.

Question: Is there one player that you wish you could play against (dead or alive)?

Shaquille O'Neal: Nah. Well, Kareem.

Question: Pick 4 others from history to make YOUR dream team.

Shaquille O'Neal: Pistol Pete Maravich, Meadowlark Lemon, Dr J, and Spud Webb

Question: What player on the Lakers has most improved their game this year?

Shaquille O'Neal: Me.

Question: Who are the unsung heroes on the team - the guys that do more than they get credit for?

Shaquille O'Neal: Rudy Garciendayeux, the equipment manager. And Jerome Crawford, security. And me.

Question: What's the atmosphere like in the locker room?

Shaquille O'Neal: Sometimes it is upbeat and sometimes it is lowbeat.

Question: How do you deal with all the pressure from fans, the media, the team? I mean, it seems like everyone wants you to do this and that.

Shaquille O'Neal: Pressure is when you don't know where your next meal is coming from. I eat good. There is no pressure.

Question: The Lakers have had a few tough games, what do you feel is the problem and how do you think the problem will be fixed?

Shaquille O'Neal: The problem is basically us not stepping up to the challenge and being satisfied with being the champions.

Question: What do you think about players who have retired and then come back? Is that something you would do?

Shaquille O'Neal: Never.

Question: What is your favorite part about being a basketball player? What is your favorite perk?

Shaquille O'Neal: Getting to showcase my powerful talents, globally, across the world.