Tensions have been simmering recently between Angel Reese and Robert Griffin III, and the iconic Shaquille O’Neal is stepping in to settle the score. On the latest episode of the “Off the Record” podcast, Shaq delivered a fiery warning to the former NFL quarterback, making it clear that he wants Griffin to think twice before continuing his remarks about the Chicago Sky forward.
The drama escalated when Griffin shared a deeply offensive photo in connection with Reese’s NBA 2K26 cover. Although he eventually condemned the post, he didn’t shy away from amplifying his narrative about Reese’s alleged animosity toward fellow star Caitlin Clark. In a rather controversial post on X, Griffin claimed he had heard from people close to Reese who purportedly suggested she harbors resentment due to the constant media comparisons between her and Clark. He distanced himself from the racial implications, asserting he never intended to make it about race.
Reese wasn’t letting that fly unnoticed and fired back, calling Griffin out directly for the inaccuracies and clout-chasing, stating, “Lying on this app when everybody know the first and last name of everybody in my circle for clout is nastyyyy work.” Strong words from the young star, who’s making headlines not just for her on-court performances but also off the court.
Enter Shaquille O’Neal, who didn’t hold back in his response to Griffin’s comments in a conversation with Bailey Jackson. In an unmistakably passionate tone, he warned Griffin to stop his jabs at Reese. “RGIII, tweet another monkey post about my girl Angel Reese and I’m gonna punch you in four f—ing face,” he declared, emphasizing that this kind of behavior needed to end. Shaq, who has been a steadfast mentor to Reese since her time at LSU, is clearly protective of her and does not want to see her drawn into this controversy.
O’Neal also shared that he is the one advising Reese to remain silent, suggesting that he believes in taking the high road amid the noise. This ongoing situation is one to keep an eye on, as the ball now lies in Griffin’s court. Will he heed Shaq’s advice, or will the exchanges continue? One thing is for sure: O’Neal is ready to defend his mentee, and he’s not backing down anytime soon.
