Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokić has secured a historic third NBA Most Valuable Player award, but not everyone seems pleased.
NBA legend and TNT analyst Shaquille O'Neal didn't mince his words, expressing his disapproval of Jokić's win.
O'Neal even conveyed his sentiments directly to the Serbian during an interview on "Inside the NBA" on Wednesday, May 8.
"You know I love you. You're the best player in the league. I want to congratulate you. But I want you to hear it from me first, I thought that SGA should have been the MVP. That's no disrespect to you but congratulations," the NBA legend told Joker.
Fortunately, Jokić reacted lightheartedly to O'Neal's comments, humbly acknowledging that many players deserve recognition for the award.
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The Nuggets center also maintained a stoic demeanor during a press conference following his win.
"To be honest, I liked last year when I didn't win it and we won a championship much better," the 29-year-old said.
Shaquille O'Neal maintains stance on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
O'Neal continued to emphasize on the show that Oklahoma City Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who finished second, deserved to win the award.
"I don't like to rain on people's parade, but I'm not happy with this one.. I felt Shai Gilgeous-Alexander deserved it," the big man said.
The 2000 NBA MVP also added that this setback could motivate the Canadian guard to pursue winning the NBA championship.
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