“Hate when men say that”—Angel Reese first, and now another revelation settles that Shaq’s disagreements with women he adores are not new. The most recent one came from former WNBA star Candace Parker. During her appearance on Bloomberg Originals, Parker got to discuss her experience with NBA broadcasting and talking basketball with people who played differently than you. And yes, only a few played it as differently as Shaquille O’Neal.

Speaking about it, Parker shed light on a constant disagreement she has had with the former LA Lakers star. “The battle I have with Shaq all the time he’s like, ‘just get the ball and score. And I’m like ‘Shaq, not everybody is 7ft, 300 pounds. Like it’s not barbeque chicken for me. I gotta do a couple of moves.’” Despite the disagreement, however, she finds being able to talk basketball with players like that super special.

And it’s not as if a constant disagreement over a particular take means the two stars have never shared bonding moments with each other as broadcasters. This year, a particularly special one came after Parker announced her retirement from the WNBA. A decision came after 13 seasons in the league, playing for three different teams.

Her resume, however, also boasts overseas basketball experience after her 13-year stint with the Los Angeles Sparks ended. Following her retirement, Parker was also named the president of Adidas women’s basketball. And it was the buildup from all these major moments that made the depth of Shaquille O’Neal and Candace’s friendship shine during a heartfelt moment on an episode of Inside the NBA.

Shaq took a break from his usual jokey tone to tell Parker exactly what she meant to him. “I don’t have a question… Just want to say you know how I feel about you… I love you. I’m so proud of you. Good luck in your new endeavor. And I appreciate our friendship very much, and I’m so proud of you. Love you.” This is heart-touching and respectful, something Shaq is known to be towards the woman he stays in touch with.

This includes Angel Reese. And yes, he had a recent disagreement with her as well.

Shaquille O’Neal’s opinion that made Angel Reese mad

Quite thrilling to see the WNBA finally getting the spotlight it deserves. Thanks to new additions like Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark! But here’s the twist—Shaq thinks the league needs just a bit more to reach its peak. He stirred the pot while appearing on Unapologetically Angel by proposing a bold—yet controversial—idea.

His suggestion? Lower the rims in the WNBA to encourage more dunks. “Our game is different because we do all the stuff—alley-oops…” O’Neal explained. Further, rim-dropping dunks could add more excitement to the WNBA. Especially when big names like Reese or Clark are not on the court.

But the Chicago Sky rookie wasn’t holding back, as the opinion did not sit well with her. “So that we can dunk? No! I hate when men say that.” Can you blame her? For Reese and many fans, Shaq’s comment brings up a larger issue. It’s a reminder that, even in 2024, some still view women’s sports through a narrow lens as if it should mimic the men’s game to be exciting.

Now, despite this strong disagreement, the love and respect they hold for each other are no secret. This also holds true for Parker and Shaq, despite what Candace may have said on Bloomberg Originals.