Shaq vs Dwight Howard: Who is the real basketball Superman?

Shaq vs Dwight Howard: Who is the real basketball Superman?

Kevin Omuya
updated at July 16, 2023 at 11:33 AM

Shaquille O'Neal and Dwight Howard, two towering centres of their respective eras, have been bestowed with the basketball Superman title. But the question remains, who is the real basketball Superman? As we delve into their careers and examine their skills, accolades, and impact on the game, we can attempt to shed light on this captivating Shaq vs Dwight Howard debate.

Shaq vs Dwight Howard
NBA's Dwight Howard (39) and Shaquille O'Neal. Photo: Adam Pantozzi
Source: UGC

Shaq vs Dwight Howard: Who is the real basketball Superman? Regarding dominant centres in the NBA, two names stand out: Shaquille O'Neal and Dwight Howard. Both players have showcased incredible athleticism, strength, and skill throughout their careers, earning reputations as formidable forces in the paint. But who truly deserves the title of basketball Superman?

Shaq vs Dwight Howard

shaq vs dwight howard highlights
Dwight Howard (12) of the Taoyuan Leopards warms up before the T1 League game between TaiwanBeer HeroBears and Taoyuan Leopards at University of Taipei Tianmu Gymnasium on February 19, 2023, in Taipei, Taiwan. Photo: Gene Wan
Source: Getty Images

Shaq, known for his sheer size and strength, was a force in the paint and won four NBA championships, earning numerous accolades, including NBA Finals MVP and regular-season MVP. On the other hand, Howard's athleticism and shot-blocking abilities have made him a defensive stalwart, earning him multiple Defensive Player of the Year awards.

On the other hand, Howard has been named the NBA's Defensive Player of the Year three times (2009-2011) and selected to the All-NBA First Team multiple times. While Howard has not won an NBA championship, he has been a critical contributor throughout his career.

In terms of their playing styles, Shaq relied heavily on his strength to overpower opponents in the low post. At the same time, Howard's athleticism allowed him to excel in rebounding, shot-blocking, and finishing at the rim. Shaq was more of a back-to-the-basket scorer, while Howard has been known for his ability to catch lobs and finish above the rim.

Ultimately, the comparison between Dwight Howard and Shaquille O'Neal depends on personal preferences and the criteria used to evaluate players. Both have significantly impacted the game, and their unique skill sets have made them standout centres in their respective eras.

Prime Dwight Howard vs Shaq's stats

prime dwight howard vs shaq stats
Dwight Howard (39) of the Los Angeles Lakers celebrates their victory over the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena on April 10, 2022, in Denver, Colorado. Photo: Jamie Schwaberow
Source: Getty Images

When comparing the prime statistical performances of Dwight Howard and Shaquille O'Neal, it is essential to note that their playing styles and eras differ. Here are the key statistics for both players during their prime years:

Dwight Howard (2007-2011):

  • Points Per Game: He averaged around 20 points during his prime years.
  • Rebounds Per Game: Excelled in rebounding, averaging approximately 13 rebounds.
  • Blocks Per Game: He showcased his shot-blocking ability, averaging around 2.5 blocks per game.
  • Field Goal Percentage: He had a substantial field goal percentage of around 59% during his prime.

Shaquille O'Neal (1992-2006):

  • Points Per Game: He was a dominant scorer, averaging approximately 28 points during his prime.
  • Rebounds Per Game: He was a force on the boards, averaging around 12 rebounds.
  • Blocks Per Game: He was a solid shot-blocker, averaging roughly 2.5 blocks per game.
  • Field Goal Percentage: His field goal percentage was exceptional, hovering around 58% during his prime.

Shaq's vs Dwight Howard's highlights

Dwight Howard vs Shaquille O'neal
Shaquille O'Neal (32) of the Miami Heat shoots a free throw during the game against the Milwaukee Bucks at the Bradley Center on November 17, 2004, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Photo: Gary Dineen
Source: Getty Images

Comparing Dwight Howard vs Shaquille O'Neal highlights showcasing the incredible athleticism and dominance both players exhibited during their careers. Here are some notable highlights from each player:

Shaquille O'Neal's highlights

  • He had dominant performances in the NBA Finals, particularly during his time with the Los Angeles Lakers, where he won three consecutive championships from 2000 to 2002.
  • Powerful dunks and displays of strength, often overpowering opponents in the paint.
  • Notable individual seasons, such as his MVP-winning s999-2000 with the Lakers, where he averaged 29.7 points and 13.6 rebounds per game.

Dwight Howard's highlights

  • Their electrifying athleticism is known for their Shaquille championships, high-flying dunks, and incredible shot-blocking ability.
  • He was a three-time Defensive Player of the Year, showcasing his prowess as a defensive anchor.
  • During his time with the Orlando Magic, he led them to the NBA Finals in 2009 and put up impressive performances throughout the playoffs.
  • Dwight Howard's Superman dunk during the 2008 NBA Slam Dunk Contest, where he donned a Superman cape and performed a memorable slam dunk.

Shaq's vs Dwight Howard's rings

who was better Shaq or Dwight
Dwight Howard (39) of the Los Angeles Lakers warms ahead of their NBA game against the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena on March 18, 2022, in Toronto, Canada. Photo: Cole Burston
Source: Getty Images

Who was better, Shaq and Dwight? Shaquille. O'Neal has had a more successful career than Dwight Howard. in terms of NBA championships

Shaq won a total of four NBA championships throughout his career. He won three titles with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2000, 2001, and 2002, forming a dominant duo with Kobe Bryant. He won his fourth championship with the Miami Heat in 2006, teaming up with Dwyane Wade. Dwight Howard won his lone title with the Lakers in 2020.

In the debate of Shaq vs Dwight Howard for the title of basketball Superman, both players have made their mark as dominant centres in the NBA. Shaq won his NBA championships and multiple MVP honours, solidifying his claim to the title. Meanwhile, Howard won his championship and Defensive Player of the Year awards. Ultimately, the comparison comes down to personal preference and criteria used, but both players have left an indelible legacy in basketball.

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Kevin Omuya photo
Kevin Omuya
Kevin Omuya is a Content Writer with 4 years of experience who joined Sports Brief in 2022. In 2019 he held a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism & Digital Media from KCA University.
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