No Comment on Shaquille O’Neal’s $300 Million Claim as A’ja Wilson Channels Another NBA Legend With Latest Feat
Just when everyone thought A’ja Wilson might keep sparring with Shaquille O’Neal over the hot topic of lowering rims in the WNBA, it seems the Vegas Aces star has chosen a different path. Instead of engaging further in the debate, Wilson has been busy making her mark by following in the footsteps of another NBA legend.
Shaq’s pitch—lowering rims so WNBA players can dunk more—has stirred plenty of debates, especially after his latest Instagram post. Shaq claimed more dunks could help WNBA stars like Wilson command massive salaries, even tossing out a $300 million figure as an example of what could be. However, Wilson was quick to dismiss his idea earlier, bluntly questioning, “What is it going to do?” and pointing out that changing the rims could negatively affect players’ mechanics. While the basketball world continues to be divided on the issue, it’s clear Wilson has moved on, focusing instead on evolving her game in a different way.
Rather than dwelling on Shaq’s suggestions, A’ja Wilson recently took to Instagram Threads to announce her next challenge: “Making it at 5 on the countdown for handles week finna be on my Jamal Crawford ish soon.” With that declaration, it’s apparent she’s drawing inspiration from Jamal Crawford, better known as “J-Crossover,” who’s considered one of the greatest ball handlers in NBA history.
Crawford’s moves aren’t about structured drills but are more a mix of rhythm, intuition, and creativity—the same type of brilliance that has defenders dancing and falling for his fakes over his 19-year NBA career. Interestingly, Crawford once admitted, “I don’t do drills at all,” emphasizing how much his game relied on natural instincts rather than repetitive practice. A’ja’s efforts to channel this energy is a testament to her drive to elevate her craft beyond her current MVP-level dominance.
A’ja isn’t just spending her offseason focusing on her handles; she’s also been spotted spending time with Miami Heat’s Bam Adebayo, fueling speculation of a blossoming romance. The two have appeared at a number of public events together recently, with A’ja attending a private dinner to celebrate Bam’s limited-edition bourbon launch, “Bam & Marilyn’s 1 of 1.” The pictures of the dinner show A’ja seated beside Bam, sharing smiles and toasts, which has fans buzzing. The pair were also spotted together at Dwyane Wade’s statue unveiling and the “Bam, Books, and Brotherhood” Thanksgiving event.
While neither A’ja nor Bam has officially confirmed a relationship, their chemistry seems undeniable, and fans have taken notice—speculating heavily on social media about what might be unfolding between the WNBA and NBA stars.
For now, while A’ja Wilson focuses on leveling up her game (and perhaps spending quality time with her rumored beau), Shaq’s rim debate remains a topic of conversation. Shaq has reiterated his belief that lowering the rims will take the WNBA to new heights, and there’s no shortage of fans voicing their opinions—both in support and opposition. Whether Shaq’s proposal will ever come to fruition remains uncertain, but until then, it’s sure to keep sparking conversations in the basketball community.
