Shaquille O’Neal openly criticized Rudy Gobert’s enormous contract, questioning the big man’s work ethic and value on the court while discussing the growing salaries in the NBA. During a recent podcast appearance, Shaq expressed frustration over Gobert’s $250 million paycheck, sparking debate about the true worth of some top-earners in the league today.
Shaq Challenges Rudy Gobert’s Work Ethic Despite Massive Earnings
NBA salaries have skyrocketed in recent years, with players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander signing deals worth $70 million for just one season. While many stars justify their huge contracts, Shaquille O’Neal singled out Rudy Gobert as an example of a player whose paycheck far exceeds his effort and impact. On the Off the Record podcast, Shaq said,
“When I am watching him (Gobert) play, he don’t work that hard,”
and questioned the rationale behind his $250 million contract.
Shaq openly compared Gobert’s value to that of other players, praising Gilgeous-Alexander’s performance and earnings by saying,
“Congratulations to Shai; that is what $70 million looks like. Right now he’s (Gobert) showing me $250,000. I don’t care if he likes it. If I was on his team, I would say that to his face.”
His comments highlighted a disconnect between Gobert’s payday and his perceived work ethic.
Impact on the Center Position and the NBA’s Evolution
O’Neal did not limit his criticism to Gobert alone; he argued that players like him contribute to the decline of the center position’s dominance in the NBA. Shaq suggested many of today’s big men lack the toughness that once defined the role, with Nikola Jokic being a notable exception. He emphasized that the current All-Star rosters reflect this shift, as fewer true centers dominate the game compared to past eras.
Rudy Gobert’s career earnings have surpassed $300 million over 12 NBA seasons, with an additional $110 million on his contract with the Minnesota Timberwolves, according to Spotrac. Despite the financial success, Shaq’s perspective illustrates a growing tension about whether some players earn contracts commensurate with their influence and effort on the court.
Shaquille O’Neal’s Views Reveal Frustration Over Changing NBA Standards
Shaq’s blunt remarks underscore his belief that the big man role has softened over time and that the rising salaries for some may undermine the league’s competitive spirit. By openly challenging Gobert’s work ethic and contribution, O’Neal shines a light on the larger conversation about player value in today’s NBA landscape. This debate could fuel discussions about contract standards and the evolving expectations for key positions moving forward.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Who is the mother of Rudy Gobert’s baby?
A. Rudy Gobert and Julia Bonilla are no longer together. In May 2025, Gobert announced on Instagram Stories that they split up. This happened while Bonilla is expecting their second child.
Q. Who is Rudy Gobert’s baby momma?
A. In May 2025, Rudy Gobert and Julia Bonilla ended their relationship. Rudy plays for the Minnesota Timberwolves, and Julia is his former girlfriend. Gobert announced on Instagram that they were expecting their second child.
Q. Is Rudy Gobert good?
A. Gobert has achieved the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award four times. This ties him with Dikembe Mutombo and Ben Wallace for the most wins. He’s been selected for the All-NBA Team four times and the All-Defensive First Team seven times. Additionally, he’s been named an NBA All-Star three times.