Shaquille O’Neal loves basketball. And he loves promoting youngsters who could be great players. This time around after the drama of the NBA Finals, Shaq has set his eyes on the draft class. And like the genius that he is, his gaze is not on this draft class but the next. Shaq just uploaded a video showing off Flory Bidunga, a Congolese player who will rival a certain Bronny James. in 2024.
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While all the attention might be on Victor Wembanyama and the class of 2023, Shaq feels that he should be a purveyor for the next class. In a bid to do so, he is promoting an underrated talent from the class of 2024, Flory Bidunga.
The class of 2024 contains many iconic names, including the likes of Mikey Williams, DJ Wagner, Isiah Collier, Bronny James, and Flory Bidunga. Unlike all the other names, Flory’s path to the league is special and Shaq sees that.
Shaquille O’Neal showcases the unique story of Flory Bidunga to his 30.9 Million followers
Shaq likes a good story. So when he saw Flory’s story, he knew he had to share it with his 30.9 million followers on Instagram. The Congolese center is the highest rated in his position for the 2024 draft class.
But what is even more special about him is the fact that he picked up a basketball just a few years ago. And just over 2 years ago he played his first game of organized basketball. For him to make such giant leaps and to become such a searingly hot prospect is sensational.
That showcase of his skill was just stunning, right? And Shaq seems to think the same. He likes Bidunga’s story and the fact that he will likely compete with Bronny sounds enticing. But his story is not that unique.
Just like Flory, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Joel Embiid have similar stories
The story of Flory is not unique. There are others like him who have come to the fore. Players like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Joel Embiid come to mind.
Both have African roots and both of the players did not play a lot of organized basketball before joining the league. They polished their skills just enough to reach the NBA.
Now, they are MVPs and Giannis has even won a championship. Shaq sharing Bidunga’s story means that he probably sees the young Congolese’s potential. But the real question is, can he fulfill it?
