What NBA Legends And Players Think Of Hakeem Olajuwon

.
.
.

The Underrated Legacy of Hakeem Olajuwon: A Titan of the NBA

When discussing the all-time greats in the NBA, names like Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and Larry Bird often dominate the conversation. However, there is one name that has been somewhat overshadowed despite an illustrious career and unmatched skill: Hakeem Olajuwon. Widely regarded as one of the most skilled and versatile centers in NBA history, Olajuwon’s impact on the game is both enduring and profound. His legacy, while sometimes overlooked, deserves to be celebrated by basketball fans and players alike.

A Unique Career Path

What sets Olajuwon apart from many other Hall of Fame players is his unique achievement. He is arguably the only player in NBA history to secure an NBA Championship without the help of another Hall of Famer or future Hall of Famer by his side. Olajuwon’s Houston Rockets won back-to-back titles in 1994 and 1995, and while the team featured talented players, none were household names comparable to the star power that often accompanies NBA championships.

This feat is not just a statistic; it speaks to Olajuwon’s ability to elevate a team on his own. His dominance on both ends of the floor—offensively and defensively—was unparalleled, earning him the rare distinction of winning the MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, and Finals MVP in the same year. To this day, no other player has accomplished this trifecta.

Reverence from NBA Giants

Olajuwon’s impact was felt even by the NBA’s most legendary players. Michael Jordan, widely regarded as the greatest basketball player of all time, openly admitted his respect and even fear of the big man from Nigeria. Jordan once referred to Olajuwon as “the big African” and revealed that he had a “healthy dose of fear” when facing him on the court. Robert Horry, a former teammate of Olajuwon’s, further emphasized that even the likes of MJ could not shake their fear when facing Olajuwon’s dominant presence. Hakeem’s footwork and skill made him a nightmare for defenders, including some of the biggest names in the league.

A Force to Be Reckoned With

While many will point to the sheer size and strength of players like Shaquille O’Neal, Olajuwon’s versatility set him apart. Shaq himself has admitted that Olajuwon was one of the few players who gave him the most trouble on the court. The “Dream” had an incredible seven moves he could use on each block, a level of sophistication and versatility that made him incredibly difficult to guard. Shaq even ranked Olajuwon in his all-time NBA starting five, highlighting the immense respect he has for Olajuwon’s game.

Kenny Smith, a former teammate of Olajuwon’s, shared similar sentiments, describing the Houston legend as a “nightmare on both ends of the floor.” Smith admired Olajuwon’s ability to dominate both offensively and defensively, stating that Olajuwon’s footwork and finesse were “a lethal combination that struck fear into the hearts of his opponents.” What made Olajuwon so special was his ability to play with power, grace, and intelligence all at once—traits that made him a versatile and unstoppable force.

A Pioneer for International Players

Olajuwon’s influence extended far beyond his own playing career. He was a pioneer for international players in the NBA, being the first player born outside the United States to win the MVP award. His success laid the groundwork for future international stars such as Dirk Nowitzki, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Joel Embiid. Through his accomplishments, Olajuwon demonstrated that players from around the world could excel on the grandest stage of basketball, inspiring a new generation of talent.

Shaq vs. Hakeem: A Controversial Comparison

Despite Shaq’s dominance in the post, Gary Payton, a Hall of Famer and one of the best defenders of all time, argued that Olajuwon was the better player compared to Shaquille O’Neal. Payton cited Olajuwon’s versatility, footwork, and ability to stretch the floor as key factors that set him apart from other big men in the league. While Shaq’s size and power were unmatched, Olajuwon’s finesse and intelligence made him an even more formidable player.

The comparison between Shaq and Olajuwon is one of the most debated in NBA history. However, many believe that Olajuwon’s all-around game, which included everything from shooting free throws to blocking shots, made him the superior player. Even Olajuwon’s teammates attest to his unrelenting work ethic, saying that his intensity in practice was just as fierce as his performance in games.

The Dream’s Legacy

Olajuwon’s legacy is not only defined by his accolades and championships but also by his influence on the game itself. His ability to play any position on the floor and guard multiple positions made him a revolutionary figure for the NBA. He redefined the role of the center, pushing boundaries with his footwork, agility, and basketball IQ. The NBA recognized Olajuwon’s greatness when it named the Defensive Player of the Year Award in his honor—a testament to his unmatched prowess on that side of the court.

A Champion on and off the Court

In addition to his on-court brilliance, Olajuwon’s character and work ethic were beyond reproach. His commitment to the game and his intense focus on improving his skills were legendary. Even during Ramadan, when he was not allowed to eat or drink during daylight hours, Olajuwon would play through exhaustion, still putting up 40-point games and dominating the opposition. His determination and dedication to his craft have inspired countless players throughout the years.

Final Thoughts

Hakeem Olajuwon may not always be the first name that comes up in conversations about the greatest players in NBA history, but his legacy stands as one of the most complete and influential in the sport. From his extraordinary footwork to his unyielding tenacity, Olajuwon proved that greatness goes beyond statistics. His impact on the game of basketball continues to resonate, and his place in NBA history is secured as one of the sport’s true legends.

Play video: