Shaquille O'Neal Misses 17 Straight Jump Shots But Still Wants $240 Million Contract: 'Dark Nowitzki Was Off'

The self-given nickname “Dark Nowitzki,” a tongue-in-cheek twist on Dirk Nowitzki, had fans howling. The difference? One German legend made a living off rainmaker fades. The other Shaq dunked on entire franchises. 

But that didn’t stop the Diesel from flexing his alter ego on social media as he chased jumpers like they were free throws (which, ironically, he also wasn’t fond of during his career).

Later, Shaq followed up with another clip, this time from a casual pickup game. This version of “Dark Nowitzki” looked far more composed. He banked in a three-pointer, tossed flashy behind-the-back dimes, and even blocked a shot while strolling around the court like he owned it. 

He missed another deep attempt, but the vibes were immaculate. He captioned the clip: “Dark nowitzki is taking over Germany pay me what I’m worth lol @bawsemanmc out there lookin like Kyrie.”

While the 0-for-17 jump shot display would disqualify most from even a G-League invite, Shaq’s point is clear: he’s still a show, and shows get paid.

Shaquille O’Neal’s audacity is part of what made him one of the most unstoppable forces in NBA history. From 1992 to 2011, he dominated with brute strength, elite footwork, and charisma few big men could ever match. 

Watching his old highlights, like his dream shake spin on David Robinson followed by a thunderous jam, reminds everyone why you simply couldn’t guard him one-on-one. He was too big, too fast, and too mean in the post.

So while the jump shots are missing, what’s not lost is Shaq’s swagger. It’s the same confidence that won him four NBA championships, three Finals MVPs, and an MVP award. He doesn’t need a jump shot to make headlines. All he needs is an iPhone, a basketball court, and a good joke.

As for the $240 million demand? It’s obviously tongue-in-cheek, but in today’s NBA, where bench players earn $20 million annually, you almost wonder: what would Shaq be worth in his prime today? If players like Rudy Gobert and Ben Simmons can earn max contracts, the Diesel, peak form or not, might just be worth every dollar he’s laughing about.

Whether he’s clanking shots, dropping dimes, or inventing new alter egos like “Dark Nowitzki,” one thing remains true: Shaquille O’Neal still knows how to own the moment.