Back in January, Shaquille O'Neal criticized Utah Jazz star, Donovan Mitchell, claiming, “[Mitchell] doesn't have what it takes to get the next level.” Mitchell's response was short and sweet, saying, “Aight.”
It was a weird way to approach the post-game interview, however, it seemed Shaq had a different idea for what type of answer he was looking for. Critiquing today's game often, O'Neal might've just wanted to see some fire out of the Jazz guard, rather than putting him down. But the interaction between the two came off like they have a feud between each other.
Donovan Mitchell's response to Shaq is ELITE 👀pic.twitter.com/53K2EYn3Cp
— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) January 22, 2021
Donovan Mitchell wanted to clear the air though, as it doesn't seem like he has any ill feelings towards O'Neal. Similar to his sleek response to Shaq's criticism, Mitchell is allowing the moment to slide off his shoulders, per the Athletic.
“It didn't really bother me,” Mitchell said. “I thought it was blown out of proportion, but that's just the media in general. When I said ‘Aight,' for me it meant that's cool, and that's your opinion and it's OK to have an opinion. I play to make sure that I'm the best player I can be for myself and my teammates.”
It's likely true the media blew the quick interaction out of proportion, as Mitchell is the type of guy who uses criticism as fuel to continue dominating in the NBA. He continued to explain his short answer to O'Neal's question by stating, “Shaq isn't my coach. If he doesn't agree that I'm a superstar, that's cool. I just have to go out and make sure that I play for my teammates.”
With the supposed feud with Shaquille O'Neal now behind him, Mitchell points his attention towards the game against the Houston Rockets in a Friday night matchup, as the Jazz look to maintain first place in the Western Conference.
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