Is Hakeem Olajuwon the Greatest Big Man Ever? Stephen A. Smith Reacts to Robert Horry's Comments

[@teeoak]

My favorite Center of All time. It was beautiful to watch him play.

[@sports360media]

Same here mate 👍

[@simonforrest2522]

I concur totally

[@smokeyjoe795]

Nobody worked harder than Moses. Even Bird said that.

[@natureboy1313]

​@@smokeyjoe795Moses woulda came off the bench on a team with Olajuwon. And I love MM.

[@MichaelKing2-7]

Agree! Hakeem’s game was a work of art

[@malcorub]

I'm a lifelong Spurs fan so David Robinson is my guy.... people criticize him for being too soft, people criticize Shaq for being undisciplined, people criticize Ewing for not being clutch and getting the Knicks a ring, Alonzo Mourning was injury prone.... it's hard to find a legitimate criticism for Hakeem Olajuwon. He truly was the best center of the 90s.

[@sports360media]

THIS ☝️ ☝️ ☝️ ☝️

[@kman7]

Die-hard Spurs fan so for me Tim is the greatest big man IMHO, bc he defeated Kobe and Shaq but Dream only won while MJ was away. But everything you mentioned about Dream was spot on, he was a straight dawg

[@mattculver8351]

@@kman7 By your logic, anyone who won a championship but did so without beating MJ is subpar. Tim Duncan also never beat Jordan so it's a wash on that one right?

[@kman7]

@@mattculver8351 No bc Duncan won while the best players from his era were playing and in their primes

[@mattculver8351]

@@kman7 So did Hakeem (Shaq, Robinson, Barkley, Malone, Stockton, Ewing, etc. (all hall of famers) -- and beat a prime Magic his 2nd year in the league). The only player he didn't "beat" to win a title was Jordan because Jordan wasn't in the league one year. The second title he won Jordan WAS in the league. Jordan wasn't in the league when Duncan, won his titles either. Your flawed logic appears to be that unless you beat Jordan your titles don't count. Duncan NEVER beat Jordan therefore I don't respect him. By the way, ask Robert Horry or Mario Elie (who played with both) who is better.

[@stephenlamb3929]

I’m from Houston. I watched The Dream from Day 1 at UH on. He is definitely the Greatest center ever to play. I watched him live probably 50 times and probably watched 90% of his games on TV in Houston. He was special. Saw him do everything you can imagine basketball wise. There was no stopping him.

[@Hay_den2005]

He is special man I remember when I was still doing basketball at a younger I would constantly watch the dreams footwork videos because he made playing the post so much fun it was beautiful watching his footwork

[@DavidGarcia-yv1fp]

I loved watching Hakeem play soooo much. I saw Hakeem take Shaq to school against the Magic in game 3 of the finals at the Summit in Houston. Shaq never had an answer for Hakeem as Hakeem was unstoppable in the finals and then sweep the Magic in 4.

[@ShermanHouston-g9u]

And nobody stopped him. Listen to what jordan said about him. He couldn't stop him.

[@akhi5749]

I remember watching as a kid watching the Rockets play on Sundays on NBA on NBC. Hakeem was the best ever. And his Spalding sneakers were niceee

[@moety2]

Been saying it for years. Give me a big man pick and it’s Dream. When they asked MJ his starting 5, he has Dream as his center and goes on to explain why.

[@sports360media]

This ☝️☝️☝️

[@michael_caz_nyc]

"Facts"

[@JAMESGANG-f5u]

Dream is MY all time starting Center. That’s over Wilt, Shaq and Kareem. Dream was THAT FN great

[@jefftaylor1186]

I think his all time 5 Magic Jordan Scottie Worthy Hakeem His reasoning is this teams speed(especially worthy) would destroy any other five

[@KG-we6by]

Wilt bodies Dream

[@Constantijn09]

The Dream was an absolute beast, and by far one of the most complete basketballers of all time

[@sports360media]

100%

[@Ontiming2023]

People say Jordan and Kobe was complete but Hakeem is a prime example of a complete player in his prime in his prime the dude wouldn’t give you shaq numbers in terms of 39 and 12 but in his prime you get 25points 11rebounds 8 asssits 5 steals 5 blocks shaq never gave you all of that Hakeem couldn’t give you 40 and 12 because the dude was getting steals an blocks on rebounds he was taking the whole load he was always the primary defender and offense pepple forget that as well he was the primary defense and offense in both championships meaning he had triple the work load shaq had people be saying shaq had hella work load how if shaq 3 rings Kobe was there to lift some of that load who lifted Hakeem work load ? Name them role players hitting big shots is not lifting work load Kobe was a bucket in 2001-2002 that man was lifting work load off shaq Hakeem won two rings as the primary offense and defense an didn’t complain not only that but he destroyed the mvp of the season in the playoffs with ease

[@angahbg9089]

​@@Ontiming2023that's what I am saying bro... Watching Hakeem highlight always blows my mind. And remember this. As great as MJ was. Kobe was a carbon copy of MJ. Nobody. Nobody after Hakeem could replicate his game. Even shooting guards can't replicate his footwork.

[@michaelkukich3527]

@@Ontiming2023 Olajuwon had forty-three games where he score 40 or more points and nine more with 39 points. During the Rockets two championship seasons Olajuwon took twice as many shots as any other player because he demanded the ball. Yet four other Rockers still scored in double-digits and Otis Thorps helped Olajuwon on the boards averaging a double-double. The 2nd year they swapped Thorpe for Clyde Drexler. So while Olajuwon was a workhorse, he wasn't playing one on five.

[@GetRightGetLeft]

Dream is the most complete big man in NBA history…

[@jamescloyd1890]

Facts

[@hoff2939]

He would FEAST in ANY era of the NBA. He'd break the game in his prime, today.

[@NeverSober8008]

Or at least he used to be, before joker

[@jamescloyd1890]

@@NeverSober8008 Man GTFOH, the only reason Joker is flourishing is because the league switched to zone defense, you take zone defense out the league and Joker would get exposed

[@tellthetruthrightnow]

@@NeverSober8008 Dude I guess you miss the part about defense. Joker does not play defense.

[@ninocrown3247]

Moses Malone was instrumental in helping develop Hakeem, who was raw athleticism arriving to University of Houston. Due to his soccer background in Nigeria, his footwork and coordination was very nimble. Moses was a beast in the post, but only had 1/20th of Dream’s athleticism. He used skill, aggression and wits to get his points in the paint.

[@sports360media]

THIS☝️☝️☝️☝️

[@seventhcompactor1505]

Moses was quite athletic, and one of the fastest quick jumpers in the league

[@francescosmith7859]

And Barkley also gives Moses so much credit for getting him in shape which was instrumental for Barkley’s career. Moses was truly special.

[@smokeyjoe795]

Moses was quick and powerful. Both he and Hakeem were quick leapers which is more important than how high a guy can jump. Moses could get off the ground two or three times in the blink of an eye. Malone would throw it up to the backboard and just go get it.

[@JoshGibson-fb7mf]

Moses Malone 3X MVP Hakeem Olajuwon 1X MVP

[@FloridaHockeyFan]

Grew up in Houston during the early/mid 90s. Hakeem the dream was my favorite player. I can still remember the old battles with the Super Sonics.

[@danielfletcher8491]

Growing up a Knicks fan. I hated Hakeem for beating my Knicks! But then as the years go on I grew up to admire Hakeem

[@sports360media]

Yep, 90s basketball was so good... so many great big mem... Olajumon vs Kemp was always fun to watch 👍

[@sports360media]

That's understandable Daniel - at least you can appreciate him now 👍

[@Vvrroommm]

OLAJUWON TURNED BIG DAVID THE ADMIRAL ROBINSONS👄 LIPS POWDER 🍩DONUT WHITE IN THE PLAYOFFS ...POWDER LIKE THE 🎥MOVIE🎥 POWDER P O W D E R MOVIE kzbin.info/www/bejne/kGbHpGRjd5d0q7c

[@AfroCentauri]

Hakeem won two rings without playing the Super Sonics in the playoffs. To me, the greatest center discussion is between Hakeem and Jabbar. All the others don’t matter.

[@1TightMinute]

Most people don’t even realize that he is the all time leading shot blocker. He also the all time leader for steals for a center and it’s not even close. David Robinson has the next highest total and it’s over 1000 steals lower. Most people think he was just an offensive guy but statistically he is one of the best defensive centers who ever lived. Completely underrated.

[@devinlwoods]

When he retired I think he was 4th or 6th all time in steals at any position. That has since changed but that's a remarkable stat. Garnett was pretty up on that list too but still not top 10.

[@Romans219]

I would take Olajuwon as my first pick at center. The man of a thousand moves.😊

[@sports360media]

The dream shake👍👍

[@Truthorfib]

Shaq said most big men has 2-3 moves. But when he faced Hakeem he couldnt figure him out and got embarassed in the Finals

[@xander6097]

@@Truthorfib - ya and to me, Shaq is the most dominant big man I've seen play in the NBA by far. I would bet every big man feared facing Shaq. One exception is Olajuwon who swept Shaq in the finals. Olajuwon owned Shaq in that series and scored against him any time he wanted to.

[@theantandthebull]

Kareem by a mile every single time. The rest is debatable

[@xander6097]

I didn’t get to watch Kareem so I didn’t witness his greatness. Obviously the stats are there to back him up. Not sure what his competitions were like so that would be the only thing I would bring up. I don’t mean to diminish Kareem or Wilt or Russell. I grew up watching Shaq and Duncan and Hakeem.

[@AirForceVet76]

He is #1 in my book, the skill set and footwork and every category he dominated in was unmatched

[@sports360media]

100%

[@akiyahwilliams9521]

Most complete NBA player ever

[@samuelmunoz1464]

What's crazy is that he didn't even grow up playing the game.

[@AirForceVet76]

@@samuelmunoz1464 hard to believe soccer was #1

[@iGucik]

I hate how no one mentions he won back to back without a all star. No superstar. No hall of famer. No duo or big three. . Also was regular season mvp. Finals mvp. Dpoy . And many more trophies in the first series. And did it while being the lowest seed.and having the shttest regular season record because his teammates were really inconsistent. Lead in every category like the joker did

[@RRRRRRRRR33]

He is flawless on both offense and defense... And he dominated the golden age of the position. For me this is not even a question, he is the best center that ever played the game. You can argue about the collective achievements and all that, still, I think his talent is indisputable, what other center is more complete, skilled and talented than Olajuwon?

[@TheIkaraCult]

Its just so aesthetically pleasing to watch someone as enormous as that move in such a graceful way, not a single movement wasted, always in control. Glorious.

[@sports360media]

100%

[@emartinezpr]

Spot on 👍

[@Nephromancer3]

Olajuwon is the greatest center of all time and its not even close in my opinion. top 3 player of all time too. come..at...me

[@sports360media]

The dream was something special.. thanks for witching 👍

[@davidcuebas9878]

He averaged 22 points and 11 rebounds a game. And won only 2 titles. Top 5 C for sure. If you want to say he is the 2nd best defensive center of all time than I will give you that.

[@torhowell5202]

No argument here. I had to check to see if I didn't type that.

[@BH-wq6mc]

Because of Hakeem, Rocket won 2 championships even until today. For people of Houston, Hakeem's the GOAT.

[@ChauncyCharm]

Maybe the best not the greatest

[@artificialintelligence0101]

He's underrated and underappreciated and he's #3 behind Wilt & Kareem imo. He finished top 10 in 5 Major categories when he retired.

[@LeonardBraziel-p2g]

Excellent my pick would have been same

[@jamesdavis8937]

That's a joke

[@imwitdeschyt]

Well my Boi. He's #1, because what you're going to do is take wilt and Kareem draft them in 1984, before Jordan if you can, then put them on that rockets team for the next 20 odd years and ask yourself with those rosters would they ever win a ring.

[@PatrickWareMedina]

I was in 4th grade when they beat Ewing and the Knicks and in 5th grade when they swept Shaq and the Magic. I remember wearing my 34 jersey to school, shaving my head, and wearing my big old sport goggles like he wore. I didn't grow up in Houston, but he was always my hero because he was the quiet big man like myself at that age. I stopped growing at 6'3" at age 12 though. To this day I and so many other people still consider him a role model both on and off the court. I've still got my red and yellow jersey too.

[@sports360media]

Love this 🧹 story Patrick 😄 same here I stop @ 6'3 at a young age and model my game on him and C-Web 👍

[@marksolum1794]

What happened when he ran into Robert Parrish and the Celtics front line? Russell and Wilt are probably the blocked shot all time leaders.

[@PatrickWareMedina]

@@marksolum1794 that was before I was even old enough to watch the game. I'm not trying to make any objective claim that Olajuwon was the greatest at any particular position or aspect of the game. I'm just saying he was and is my favorite player.

[@hectorlopez1069]

You had the right to do that because he's one of the best nba players of all time.

[@nathanholman1475]

​@@marksolum1794NO Olajuwon is the all time block shot leader.

[@ducksseason]

Even after MJ won 6 championships and has cemented himself as the GOAT, no one ever said Houston made a mistake in drafting Hakeem. That tell you how great Hakeem was. At the peak of his prime, I take Hakeem over any center.

[@sports360media]

Very true 👍👍

[@anthonyjohnson9403]

Houston made the best move for their franchise, no doubt. And I was born and raised in Chicago. A died in the wool Chicago sports fan and Jordan was God disguised as Michael Jordan. But Houston made the only pick they should have even considered. A no brainer. Hakeem basketball grew right in the cities backyard. Possibly the easiest HOF pick of all time in any sport. From a soccer goalie who never played hoops to one of greatest hoopsters this world has ever seen. All in 3 years. To this day I've never seen any player in any sport go from never played to Phi Slamma Jamma in such a small period of time.

[@mj23goat3]

I'm sayin' it right now: Houston made a mistake when they chose Hakeem. Great, great player but they could've had Jordan and 6 to 8 rings for their organization and instead got none.

[@kenneths.perlman1112]

No it wasn’t a mistake at the time, even the Bulls would have taken the big man. But if they did that draft today EVERYONE would take Jordan first.

[@anthonyjohnson9403]

@@kenneths.perlman1112 If Native Americans knew what was coming, they would have said hello to Columbus, then thrown his ass off the shore and trespassed him. Revisionist history is always the best

[@rubenpita1585]

Thank you for this great video. I live in the Dominican Republic and started watching the NBA back in 1995 because of Olajuwon in the NBA Finals against Shaquile O'neal and his Orlando Magic, where Hakeem totally dominated. I witnessed Hakeem's greatness in his dominance and swept over the Orlando Magic. The moves, shot making, the defense. I could hardly give credit to what my eyes where seeing and after that first Finals game, I felt in love the the game and became Rockets fan until now.

[@anthonylucia2398]

You cannot tell me that he didn’t have the best footwork than of any big man that has ever played the game. His moves were a thing of beauty. When David Robinson won the MVP over him…The Dream made everyone look silly. Especially The Admiral when they met in the playoffs!

[@sports360media]

Yep, Dream took it personally 😀

[@DavidBrown-zz2hs]

correction not best footwork of any big man... of any player period... Kobe once said.. he didnt study Jordan or Magic footwok but Dream's foot work is what he studied.

[@Raiden324]

He was traveling

[@safeandeffectivelol]

@@Raiden324 cool story 🤣🤣🤣

[@anthonyjohnson9403]

Hakeem vs. The Admiral during the playoffs that year was the equivalent of watching America's top rated battleship going down section by section

[@dnice4145]

Dream had the sweetest footwork of any big man I've ever seen.

[@sports360media]

100% the Dream shake 🤌

[@ronny-lb1cr]

He had the footwork of a Brazilian soccer player. Big men in general can't move like that

[@kisswriters]

He had the best footwork of any player, guard, forward or big man… the best footwork ever.

[@GeorgeFitness-yo8bl]

Then you never saw Kevin Mchale play . He had more moves and was tougher to guard

[@kisswriters]

@@GeorgeFitness-yo8bl McHale was impossible to guard in the post; but he wasn’t Hakeem.

[@natskivna]

Got to see many of his games live at the Summit including playoff games and Game 2 of the 1994 NBA finals. What a player...my favorite of all time.

[@rogeraraiza9690]

I have to agree. As a 41 year old man & a 30+ year fan of my NY Knicks. I love Patrick Ewing but the Dream was just too tough for us in the 94 Finals. Hakeem was just so versatile & talented. He was incredible w that dream shake.

[@sports360media]

Like me, you remember the rockets knicks series.. Hakeem was unstoppable 👍

[@Redbone504]

Great Finals

[@yannblavec2712]

are you from new york ?

[@Michael-dt9lo]

The difference in that series was Stark no-showed in game seven. I grew up watching the Rockets and my concern was with Stark that series.

[@rogeraraiza9690]

@Michael-dt9lo Starks was always hot & cold. 1 of my favorite all-time Knicks but yes at times ol John was a liability.

[@quinaroldeal9816]

Greatest skilled big man of all time

[@sports360media]

Would have to agree with you Quinarol. Thanks for watching 👍

[@TXWkilljoy]

That would be Wilt.

[@sports360media]

Not sleeping on Wilt either 👍

[@mrsinister8943]

I think Jokic is moving up that list fast. Averaging nearly a triple double and winning the title and finals MVP and back to back MVP trophies. He definitely should of won his 3rd straight MVP award. Hakeem was great and Wilt was great though He played in such a different era. Jokic is like a Bird/Magic center.

[@quinaroldeal9816]

@@mrsinister8943 we are ppl of the moment. The reason for me could be era bias. Bigs of past wasn't asked to do what they do in today's game. Just a Different games. He had a peak or prime of 14yrs str8. So if Nikola has a run comparison to that like that. The comp im not worried about that he has to go up against. It's him or Embiid. No other true 5's in the league. So after that, then I can say he is. As for Wilt, Kareem, Shaq they didn't have his the foot work like Hakeem

[@joehiggs4349]

SAS’s point about nobody ever questioning their choice of Dream over MJ is his most insightful point ever. That was first rate.

[@Swayzee33]

Dude's always been in my top 5 from the start. The guy had no flaws as a player, just special and elite on both ends.

[@sports360media]

100%

[@kennethli8]

Hakeem is my favorite player as a die-hard Warriors fan for over 30 years. The only noticeable weakness about Hakeem was that he was not a great passer. He missed a lot open cutting passes. I noticed that Shaq and Jokic are much better passers in his position for the last 30 years.

[@43captrexkramer]

Let's put it this way, been a Sixers fan for over 40 years but I have an Olajuwon jersey because I respected and enjoyed watching him that much.

[@sports360media]

Respect 👊

[@43captrexkramer]

@@sports360media always remember, he didn't start playing basketball until he was 17. By the time he was a college junior he was the first player drafted, a natural talent.

[@43captrexkramer]

Just watched this again, someone should by Steven A. a map, Phi Slamma Jamma was at the University of Houston. Someone should also teach this narrator how to pronounce Horry's name correctly.

[@dreislife693]

Olajuwan is my favorite all time center he was a beast

[@sageantoni3226]

Why does no one ever mention that Hakeem is also one of the top 10 all time steals leaders...as a center!! That is completely unheard of for that position. Along with all the other things that he is known for, it makes for a very strong case of Olajuwon being the best big ever.

[@sports360media]

Very true 👍

[@RoBLuv-g6u]

Over rated

[@robluv4592]

He overated

[@jameshorton3692]

@@RoBLuv-g6uhuh?

[@billyzoe1816]

Steals by center come-on now 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂 That's like air balls by guard 😂😂

[@jpsi9]

One other element Hakeem had in spades was clutch performance. When it was time, he always came through. Solid all-around, especially when it mattered.

[@sports360media]

100% 👍👍

[@1streylight]

Truly, the most underrated player ever in the NBA, even with all the accolades

[@themack74]

Because he is a 7footer

[@Jp2timezz]

He the greatest 2 way player of all time he doesn’t get the respect he deserves 💯🐐

[@sports360media]

100% he doesn't get the respect 👍

[@anthonytaylor7928]

Are u high?yes he does why do folks say dumb stuff on KZbin

[@Jp2timezz]

@@anthonytaylor7928 who saying dumb shi? Nobody says hakeem never in the top 5 centers of all time when people talk about who the greatest center ever he the greatest center too me but that’s everybody else opinion 💯

[@JuwanDunbar]

Facts. Hakeem is better than LeBron,Shaq and Kareem

[@Jp2timezz]

@@JuwanDunbar he in the conversation for sure 💯💯

[@shhinobii]

One more huge thing that ppl forget is that Hakeem won his NBA title in 93-94 season without any оther Hall of Fame member in his team. Two more players did that in the history of NBA but none of the famous big men. All other big men had strong teams behind to support them. That's why Olajuwon is the best center ever, IMO.

[@sports360media]

THIS ☝️☝️☝️☝️

[@rodneyhughes8791]

Teach Them Texas!!!

[@notimportant3686]

so what?... no hall of famers, but he did have A VERY GOOD TEAM that year, a lot of those guys were brand names even if not in the hall now

[@andrewellmaker5171]

Drexeler was a Hall of Famer 2005 won a championship with the Dream

[@NateWilliams..]

​@@terencedenson8705😂😂😂

[@kelefane6233]

Hakeem the Dream is the best center in history. Top 5 player of all time. The Dream could play in any Era and dominate.

[@NOJSIP]

I totally agree.

[@0maj0hns0n3]

The Dream was a hero for us growing up in the Houston area. The man was elite!

[@sports360media]

Awesome to watch👍👍

[@hectorlopez1069]

Always

[@clarissawestbrook2203]

Hakeem Olajuwon is one of my favorite NBA players of all time and one of the greatest NBA players of all time. He is a definite top ten NBA player of all time.

[@sports360media]

I agree with everything you said Clarissa, thanks for watching 👍

[@clarissawestbrook2203]

@@sports360media You're welcome

[@sports360media]

👍👍

[@mwright_boomer]

I grew up in Houston in the 90s. Dream was my first sports hero. Everybody I knew growing up tried to do the Dream Shake. I didn’t realize back then just how great he was. One thing that made him so great is that he regularly made insanely difficult shots, so when the level of competition jumped up against guys like Ewing and Robinson, his numbers didn’t fall off because he was used to making tough shots, but their numbers would dip because they were being forced to make those difficult shots they weren’t used to. He was a guard in a center’s body. And the things you see bigger guys doing in the NBA now, guys like Joel Embiid, Hakeem started that. He took outside shots, had incredible footwork, and was really the first center to play more of that style of offense.

[@davidwise5937]

Agree. The top center in the top era of the position. The most skilled big man of all time. The most complete player. Duncan was the big fundamental but didn’t have Olajuwon’s athletic ability. Shaq was the most physically imposing force at that time but didn’t have close to the skill level of either of the other two. It’s Hakeem in a walk, and I say that as a still-suffering Patrick Ewing fan.

[@sports360media]

You saw the Dream vs Ewing in the finals and can still appreciate him👍👍

[@cameronrice3726]

I heard Kenny Smith in an interview once say he could shoot 3's as well as any of the guards at the Rockets in training drills. Most well rounded centre to ever play the game.

[@sports360media]

If he shot 3's in games........ unstoppable

[@davidbracken6529]

The only close 2nd would be Wilt Chamberlain because of his obscene athleticism. But Olajuwon's build and his hand-eye coordination and his quickness made his the best offensive AND defensive center of all-time. Dream-shake, baseline fadeaway, from the corner--nothing but net! There was no way with his ball handling skills you could stop him. The best evidence of this is the game against David Robinson's Spurs, when the NBA crowned Robinson the league's MVP just prior to the game. Hakeem took him to school--I actually felt for Robinson. Brutal!!!

[@FuShengAlex]

Kareem?

[@texasturner2313]

Hakeem was arguably the most complete player to ever play in the NBA. Robert Horry was a beast too. Loved his aggressive style of play.

[@sports360media]

Thanks for watching, yeah always enjoyed watching Big shot Rob👍

[@hectorlopez1069]

Robert horry is right, he always loved playing with Hakeem. He was so special to rob.

[@Andrewthestagehand]

Olajuwon has the greatest stat of any player the nba has ever seen. HE STARTED PLAYING BASKETBALL IN COLLEGE. Game over. Think of your goat right now... Wilt, Jordan, Kareem, Bird, Magic, LeBron, Bill Russell, etc. They all had MAD SKILLS before going to college. OLAJUWON was terrible at basketball when he was 16 years old, as he just started learning to play. It wasn't until he got TO COLLEGE that he actually received actual basketball training. Yet somehow he becomes a legend in basketball. The man could have easily played any sport he wanted to, it's just that simple. He was a phenom, but because he's Muslim and an introvert, he gets looked over all the time. Arguably the most disrespected player ever.

[@texasturner2313]

@@Andrewthestagehand Agree, and the fact that he played in Houston, a city the media doesn’t pay much attention to. Especially compared to Los Angeles, Dallas, and New York.

[@JAMESGANG-f5u]

Horry was good , but bro ... recognize... Horry doesn’t belong anywhere near this conversation

[@DRTREY-qf4iz]

The world missed out on a Bulls vs Rockets Finals! Would’ve been epic!

[@sports360media]

Must watch TV👍👍

[@digidrum2003]

Tragic......just tragic. I'm a long time Rockets fan.

[@sports360media]

100%

[@pluto545]

People will say Wilt and Russell, because of the numbers. Others will say Kareem or Shaq for prolonged greatness. But, the total package was Dream. He didn't have the greatest offensive numbers, but he had the best and most varied offensive game. He had great footwork to match with post moves and shooting range, added with his athleticism and agility. He was a clutch offensive player, whose greatest asset, may have been his overall defense. His defense would be unstoppable in just about any era of the NBA.

[@bilogskii2216]

Hakeem was so great no one brings up the fact that the Houston Rockets drafted him before MJ and no one puts an asterisk on his two rings just because MJ wasn't there.

[@sports360media]

Agreed bilogskii22, Thanks for watching 👍

[@PETERODZZ]

And made it to the play offs in the 80s

[@FuShengAlex]

Edit Jordan and Chicago lost to the Orlando team Houston swept. Was there

[@hectorlopez1069]

​@@PETERODZZ Hey, he went to the finals in 86.

[@texasturner2313]

Hakeem is top 3 GOAT period. He would be the greatest in todays NBA TOO.

[@sports360media]

100%

[@michaeltorres5331]

I agree I have Bird MJ and Dream as my top three

[@coleycole5344]

​@@michaeltorres5331Ditto

[@buyuni1]

thank you Horry, you have the best credentials to talk about this subject.

[@charlesmccall6142]

Definitely, one of the top 5 Centers of all time. He had the footwork of a point Guard. Amazing to watch.

[@sports360media]

Agree 100%

[@hectorlopez1069]

and he was smart too.

[@TheIcemanthomas]

Po my guards don’t have footwork like that. More sg

[@keithharris6442]

Wilt. Then everyone else

[@EAchank]

In Toronto we never got a healthy Hakeem. But there was this stretch and WOW he was incredible for about a week or 2. Won us games scored played amazing D and inspired our team to believe we could do something But the injuries....what a shame Hakeem was an amazing player like a Giannis mixed with Duncan

[@sports360media]

Yeah, it was a shame it didn't work out in Toronto 👍

[@Mr196710]

We know. TVs existed back then.

[@EAchank]

@@Mr196710 yeah ok but nobody talks about it so I did

[@jlobiafra]

As a long time Houstonian we do not talk about Hakeem playing for the raptors lol. It's like seeing your ex wife with another man

[@EAchank]

@@jlobiafra like for us with VC in New Jersey lol

[@mrbungle311]

I heard a local radio guy in Houston back in the day say it best. You could argue Shaq and Duncan had the greater careers, but at their zeniths, at the absolute peaks of their careers, Hakeem was the best.

[@monunyabidness5949]

I add him to every conversation about the best player of all time.

[@sports360media]

And so you should👍

[@stuartfishman1044]

I got into basketball in 1970, when the Knicks won their first championship. Since that time, The two best centers I've ever seen were Kareem Abdul Jabbar and Hakeem Olajuwon. I didn't see Wilt at his best and I missed Russell, so I can only go by who I've seen the most. They were the most dominant centers of their respective eras, both unstoppable.

[@sports360media]

Stuart, you have seen some greats in your time watching 👍👍

[@ziginaigra]

how u miss shaq in that most dominant part lol

[@stuartfishman1044]

@@ziginaigra I didn't miss Shaq. Olajuwon took him to school in the NBA finals. The Rockets swept the Magic off the floor.

[@ziginaigra]

@@stuartfishman1044 they play 28 times shaq avg more points rebounds blocks and assist lol

[@ziginaigra]

@@stuartfishman1044 Olajuwon avg 19 ppg and 9 rebounds vs shaq in 28 games,total domination:)

[@BORN-to-Run]

Olajuwon is a PURE BREED; I would hate to see how MUCH BETTER he WOULD HAVE BEEN had he grown-up playing basketball.

[@TheWilliamBWilliams]

He's the best center I ever saw live and i started watching in 91.

[@sports360media]

You've seen a lot👍

[@jameshurtado5389]

There is a strong argument for Hakeem when you look at what he could do defensively along with what he could do being able to give you 30 plus points

[@sports360media]

Yep, 100% mate 👍👍

[@NineToes19]

Sooo many people have NO idea what ‘the dream shake’ is. If it were easy, it would still be around.

[@higuy351]

After I Watched him Win 2 Ring's in a Row in THE SEMI-JORDAN Less era, He Complete in My Opinion, not Taking away anything from the other Great Centres. But he was so Efficiently Skilled & Humble Simultaneously 👌👌👌👌

[@sports360media]

👍👍 thanks for watching!

[@hectorlopez1069]

Jordan still loses to Olajuwon if Jordan didn't leave to play baseball.

[@ericdaniel323]

@@hectorlopez1069 I agree. The Rockets were a bad matchup for the Bulls in that era, specifically because they had no answer for Hakeem. IIRC, they played six times during the Bulls run from ‘90-‘93, and Houston won five of them.

[@JoshGibson-fb7mf]

They didn’t play the Sonics otherwise Kareem would’ve been ringless today

[@royhunt1690]

Hakeem is definitely one of the best to do it. He's my favorite!

[@sports360media]

100% Roy 👍👍

[@jnlnsa]

Definitely. The best center.

[@bobbyestebanlar310]

My thought of it is that Hakeem can guard any of the greatest centers in NBA history even at their peak. But none of them, i believe, are quick enough or athletic enough to guard him.

[@sports360media]

THIS ☝️☝️☝️

[@marckellough529]

Yeah right!! He couldn't even guard Kareem when he was an old man so how can you say he could guard him in his prime

[@d.michael372]

Best center EVER. Best footwork, best post moves in the paint, best defender. Leading centers in steals lol. No legitimate # 2 guy. MVP, DPOY. Stop leaving this man out the convo.

[@sports360media]

100% thanks for watching 👍

[@hectorlopez1069]

Even Jordan couldn't do that

[@thomasespositio3139]

the dream was incredible,I would still put Wilt first, great athletes at center the dream,wilt,russ,the admiral,I would put the Dream second to Wilt he had so many tools, Kareem doesn't enter in the conversation no fire in his belly, an onlooker under and around the basket later in his career

[@PCap-o3x]

As a native Houstonian and a big Rockets fan, the Dream is by far the best move ever made by Houston. Thanks to Robert and Kenny for your comments.

[@h.j.victory6103]

Personally my favorite NBA center of all time is Hakeem Olajuwon. For me he's the most skilled center overall, offensively and defensively. He played the game with skill and not brute force. Although i would have loved to see Wilt Chamberlain during his prime, and compare him with the rest of the centers

[@sports360media]

100% H.J 👍👍👍

[@mudiabubakar8503]

And people don't even mention that he has the Houston Rockets record in steals! And that is big man!

[@catalogueboys2538]

Wilt was nowhere as skilled as hakeem... Even shaq was more skilled than wilt. He was just an athletic freak in a league of plumbers.

[@Truth-s9m]

@@catalogueboys2538 Wilt is the most skilled big man ever. Anyone who thinks like you is just plain ignorant.

[@B-H76]

Dream is definitely so underrated! He is the best center ever and the best defender ever! He should definitely be in the top 10 on all these tv discussions

[@blackwulf8793]

He played against Kareem considered the greatest Center he needed to take away a couple titles away from him to be best center.

[@sports360media]

100% BH-qh3re

[@B-H76]

@@blackwulf8793 if you match the two up in their primes. You know Kareem couldn't check him. No center could. But you know that Dream is the best defender ever. The center that retired 7th all time....not in rebounds...not in blocks ( which he is #1).....but in steals!!! How does a center get that high in steals? Because of his small forward quickness that Kareem definitely didn't deal with

[@tyhijames89]

​​​@@B-H76Hakeem couldn't check Kareem either, when he was playing the 5 when Sampson was injured during a regular season game. At age 38, he dropped 46 on Hakeem's head, and that was well out of his prime. The main reason they ousted my Lakeshow out of the 1986 WCF, is because he had Ralph Sampson at his disposal, who was the main defender vs Kareem at the 5, while Hakeem was at the 4.

[@damon6126]

There's a reason why players like Kobe Bryant went to Hakeem for instruction on footwork and moves. Like NBA Commissioner David Stern said when presenting the MVP trophy to Olajuwon: Hakeem plays "with an elegance and grace that's spectacular." I had the privilege of watching Hakeem from his first U of H days until the end of his career. The man was a sight to behold. Greatest center of all time.

[@jaggernaut100980]

One more GREAT THING about Sir Hakeem, HE NEVER SAID ANYTHING BAD OR SOMETHING AGAINST HIS CO-PLAYERS= teammate nor opponent.

[@sports360media]

Check out this video about Hakeem and vernon maxwell kzbin.info/www/bejne/mH-QaqqjbJV7o6s

[@garthrobin2344]

He was loyal played for one team unheard in these times great player

[@sports360media]

He did end up playing for the raptors for 1 season, but we all have forgotten that👍

[@dancaswell3703]

He was willing to give Houston 2 more years, but they basically dumped him to Toronto for a draft pick, to swing the deal to get Yao when he came out of China. It's still not cool for a team to dump off a legend, much like NY with Ewing.

[@hardwoodthought1213]

Only elite player whose failures (6 straight seasons of missed playoffs and first round exits, first modern superteam ending in failure, being a infamously bad teammate and leader for his first decade in basketball) are completely ignored and his limited success (2 titles with only 2 further conference finals) elevated so much.

[@sports360media]

👀

[@FuShengAlex]

Dubious analysis. What matters is how he played in those playoff defeats and for the most part he grew across the board come playoff vs what he did in the regular season. Lots of the greatest players in nba history were bad teammates.

[@hardwoodthought1213]

@@FuShengAlex Why does LBJ get shit on for losing to Orlando in 2009? Or Boston in 2008? Or GSW in 2015/18? If he lost to Indy or Boston in 2018, would he have got a pass?

[@FuShengAlex]

@@hardwoodthought1213 LBJ gets bashed for those losses and quite frankly it's basically a lot of LBJ haters revelling in his failure moreso than them thinking logically. They're wrong to do and not thinking analytically Now a series like the '11 Finals he definitely should be criticized for his play in that loss. But not really sure what Hakeem has to do with any of that? It's not like there's a large amount of people that label Hakeem the GOAT whereas LBJ has proclaimed himself as such, not to mention the fanbase/current former players comparing him with Jordan. Of course he's going to be held to a higher standard and under the microscope.

[@sports360media]

Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment in such detail everyone 👍

[@lex6794]

He Definitely is the Smoothest Big Man!

[@sports360media]

100%

[@InvestBetter.]

After Wilt and Kareem, The Dream was as good as it gets And he was fun to watch, which is very rare for a big man His post game was pretty much unmatched and his defense was the best

[@sports360media]

100% The dream shake 🤌

[@Jikjuka]

Kareem couldn't hold him when they played in the 80s. Kareem was getting old though, but Hakeem did manage to beat the showtime Lakers 1 year in the playoffs.

[@safeandeffectivelol]

@@Jikjuka Kareem was 37 when they played in the WCF but was still putting up 23.4ppg

[@benyah3390]

​@@safeandeffectiveloland Akeem had just started learning basketball 7 years prior. Let's not act like Kareem didn't still have experience on his side at the time.

[@phillipschuman4307]

Thanks for mentioning the other two GOAT level centers, who I think must be ranked higher than Hakeem. Of course, Hakeem could do things they could not do. But they accomplished things he didn't, also. They both had greater careers in total, and imo both would have had multiple DPOY awards if it existed. Hakeem's right around Shaq's level, arguably greater (even though less accomplished in some important ways, but Shaq is the only great center with zero blocks or rebound title seasons). Top five center territory. Note, Horry's ranking was for the great centers (or bigs-- Duncan) he played with.

[@garvinrankine5682]

He's my favorite center of all time a true LEGEND

[@ThrifterGuy]

The Dreams foot work never mind for a big man. Was unmatched.

[@sports360media]

100% so many different moves👍

[@Raydington]

​@@sports360mediaWhich would you prefer, a guy with many moves or a guy with one unstoppable move?

[@nathanwells9136]

Hakeem was a nightmare, teams had to prepare for him defensively but then prepare again on offense, leader in blocks but also the amount of shots this guy changed and made miss just crazy.

[@sports360media]

Yep, people forget about changed shots👍👍

[@onlydbrasko]

Give me elite two-way legends on the same team - Hakeem, Duncan, MJ, Kobe plus the best shooter in the game Curry and I don't care who they play against.

[@msl5253]

@@onlydbrasko He was also like a walking, running tornado (it's too much to breakdown, maybe I'll do it later, lol). He, covered the entire court from the 3 point arc, right down/in to the baseline and sidelines, both behind and perpendicular to the basket. It was incredible. No one was safe anywhere on the court. Not rebounders; ball handlers; shooters; passers; pick & roll participants; in bound passers or recipients; bigs; smalls; no one!! It/he was Crazy!!

[@ronniejoejr.4748]

So underrated man is the GOAT center and tore Shaq off the bone

[@elijaharvinger1178]

I remember watching The Dream cooking Patrick Ewing in the finals at my mother's repass. After the service we all went back to my aunt's house and the game was on in the back room. Dream crossed Pat up spun and dunked it and I heard a roar go up from the back room. I went back there and the game was basically almost over at that point but when I saw the highlights and box scores I knew Dream was that dude.

[@sports360media]

👍👍👍

[@edguyrocks5865]

The dream was awesome. And a quiet big man with skills.

[@sports360media]

100% 👍👍

[@soulcraft_84]

Best footwork for a center, amazing player! I miss big men playing the post in today’s game.

[@dee1971dee]

I saw Dream play for the University of Houston when he was with Five Slama Jama and was good but when grew offensively in the NBA he is by far the greater than Shaq, who was all power, Duncan, who had the Admiral lets not forget but Dream is number 1 big man of his era and he had the grace and touch of Wilt Chamberlain who is the best big man ever. So yes Dream stands alone like Robert Horry said.

[@sports360media]

👍👍 thanks for watching Darwin D

[@freeisalwaysme]

in 03 Robinson was broke down. HE was averageing single digits. That's not a help. Only 3 players on that spurs team scored in double digits the whole year. Robinson wasn't one.

[@freeisalwaysme]

in 03 Robinson was broke down. HE was averageing single digits. That's not a help. Only 3 players on that spurs team scored in double digits the whole year. Robinson wasn't one.

[@fateagle4life]

The Dream Shake on the baseline was money. Dude could shoot, handle the ball, and defend. Made Shaq look like a fool in the Finals vs Orlando.

[@sports360media]

🧹🧹🧹🧹

[@dancaswell3703]

Shaq was runner up MVP, and he was in beast mode. I remember the toughest test for Shaq was MJj and Pippens bulls, everyone thought it would be Robinson/Rodman vs shaq and Penny. Then Hakeem went god mode and destroyed all those guys.

[@paulw559]

He took Shaq, David Robinson, Ewing… and any other center of his time through a master class. They have footage you can see for yourself.

[@HiNRGboy]

Have to go with Wilt as the greatest Center of all time..But I loved watching Dream play, he's certainly one of the greatest too.

[@sports360media]

You make too much sense BenDallas, thanks for watching mate👍

[@kingofpendragon]

Wilt played against PLUMBERS, CARPENTERS, & FIREMEN. He played against BUMS. Hakeem is BETTER.

[@armandodelossantos736]

Wilt is nowhere near Olajuwon in skill or anything else for that matter.

[@TimSpangler-v9i]

@@armandodelossantos736 Are you serious? you CANT be

[@armandodelossantos736]

@@TimSpangler-v9i you show me Wilt hitting a 17ft spinning fall away or swatting Jordan's 3p buzzer beater to end a game, and then we can talk. No way, Olajuwon would only have 2 rings in a league with only 8 teams and nobody as good as Jordan, Bird, or Magic.

[@adamfitzgerald911]

I watched NBA basketball from 1986-2008. Hakeem Olijuwan was the most skilled basketball player i have ever seen at the center position. He is also the third greatest player, outside of Jordan-Bird, i have ever witnessed.

[@sports360media]

You watched all 3 in their peak - I like your rankings 👍

[@michaeltorres5331]

I have the exact same top three with Bird number one in my opinion

[@sumandsubstance7881]

him and Jokic are 2 most skilled big men of all time

[@jcmunoz21]

Love the Dream! He’s in my starting 5

[@sports360media]

Same with me Carlos👍

[@casboys2]

Oh, here is something else. In my opinion a metric for the truly great players is that their stats get even better in the playoffs. I think Hakeem had the greatest improvement in this area of any big man (though Shaq was a beast in those three championships with the Lakers).

[@sports360media]

Agree with you 100%👍👍

[@dwharencepresident1383]

Yes greatest big man of all time. "THE Dream".

[@robeiur]

the way he schooled Shaq and the abismal talent and technique difference between these two shows how great Hakeem was.

[@sports360media]

🧹🧹🧹🧹

[@danteprice1874]

Shaq was a rookie lol prime hakeem wouldnt know what to do with a prime shaq lets cut the bullshit

[@robeiur]

@@danteprice1874 Shaq ate. you cannot say Shaq was a better Ball player. he was big but that is it. he never carried a team to the champ. always ridding the bus. Kobe buss Wade buss. etc. Hakeem single handled Shaq TWICE. back to back swept.

[@coreytaylor8542]

Shaq my Dawg but not quite the skill set and don't mention the free thr.......well you know

[@jesses5463]

@@danteprice1874 That wasn't Shaq's rookie season. That was Shaq's 3rd season. Shaq hit his prime very early. You are correct though, the majority of Shaq's prime he played in a league where all the good centers had already retired or were over the hill.

[@ErickMerioles]

Dream shake is one heck of a move with millions of possible finish! Shaq might be the most dominant but he had a weakness and lacks leadership during his first finals stints. Hakeem is effin great.

[@sports360media]

🧹🧹🧹🧹

[@johnwingate8799]

The dream shake was a well disguised travel.Even without it He would have still been the most dominant center...except in 86.

[@terrancethomas9792]

Akeem and Wilt had the best moves for a center. Both could have played in any generation.

[@ErickMaciasJuarez]

When I think of my personal starting 5, I always have this debate whether Kobe or MJ as SG, KG or Duncan as my PF, Steph or AI as my PG. But I have never doubted that my Big Man would be Dream

[@sports360media]

Dream is my starting 5👍

[@erichvonmanstein6876]

Kobe or Mike BWAHHHHHH HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA!!!!! good joke. It's not even close. It's Mike. Period.

[@erichvonmanstein6876]

Oh wait you just said Steph or AI. 🙄One wasn't even s point guard and the other can't hold a candle to Magic. Everything you say is invalid from here on out

[@ErickMaciasJuarez]

@@erichvonmanstein6876 that's why it is MY personal starting 5. Reader.

[@mj23goat3]

@@erichvonmanstein6876 "One wasn't even s point guard and the other can't hold a candle to Magic." ...or Stockton.

[@lostcs2]

I agree. Imagine if The Dream had a prime Kobe or Pippen by his side. We're probably talking at least 5 chips and Chicago doesn't go 6-0 in the finals. Even when the bulls were kicking ass they always struggled to beat The Rockets when The Dream was on the floor. Great video

[@sports360media]

Cheers HR, you're support is always appreciated 👍👍

[@hectorlopez1069]

Dream gets 1 championship from Jordan in those two seasons, but not back to back.

[@marckellough529]

What if,woulda,coulda, shoulda that's a neverending conversation

[@slick222]

I LOVE Robert Horry. Think about it. His unselfishness and commitment to doing things right gave us countless moments in the NBA Playoffs, AND NOW he gives precious 100% truth that he doesn't blink to say when others do.

[@MrIlovethisshow]

Maybe…. a case can be made and I’m sure he is for alot of fans, for me it’s Kareem but The Dream was definitely an all time great big.

[@sports360media]

100% definitely in the conversation

[@furious79]

Of course he had the unstoppable low post moves and footwork, but his best attribute was actually his defense. His defense was absolutely incredible. He's the all time leader in blocked shots and he's TENTH all time in steals - as a CENTER.

[@georgejones2863]

If blocks were counted when Wilt played he would have 6000 more than the dream.

[@NkMattson]

What about Tim Duncan??? He was an amazing power forward and center??? For me one of the greatest

[@donaldrobinson1030]

The Dream was every centers nightmare!!!!! He will always be the greatest hands down.

[@tonypassaretti]

Wilt was the best and I've seen all great centers but George Mikan.

[@harmieporter2058]

It finally took Shaq to admit that the dream kick his ass in that 1995 finals.

[@sports360media]

🧹🧹🧹🧹

[@Jindsing]

Dream is a treat to watch, even today. God bless youtube.

[@ritchierich6133]

100% Dream was one of the greatest centers of all time. he was a absolute beast. if I was to pick my all time team, Dream is my center, over every center of all time and its not even close. if we are just talking skill, he is the greatest center of all time

[@sports360media]

☝️☝️☝️☝️☝️ THIS👊

[@BH-wq6mc]

It's a pity that a rotten franchise like Rocket ruined Hakeem's prime and discarded him when he was old and injured.

[@sports360media]

Yeah, it wasn't the best ending in Toronto for Dream

[@davidbaraka1741]

MJ had grant and the Rodman. No knock on him, MJ and Hakeem are my fav players

[@ramtruth3]

Dream did it ALL

[@sports360media]

100% one of my all time favourites 👍

[@LapNgo-h9u]

I've had this convo with my friends here in H-Town. Would you take MJ and let it roll or stay with our 2 titles. Consensus was stay with Dream and back-to-back. Here's one thing that people forget about Dream. He was one of the best at getting steals for a big man. Dude averaged 1.7 over his career and 5 years over 2. That's unheard of, especially back then. Also, during his prime he was ~75% from the lines, so no glaring weakness like Shaq. I'm also a huge Duncan fan, and it's not even close. What he did to David Robinson in the playoffs the year Admiral won the MVP was criminal. EDIT: Just looked it up. He's #1 all time in steals per game for a center. Admiral was 2nd with 1.4.

[@ron88303]

Steals per 36 minutes played: Hakeem 1.8 Robinson 1.5 Anthony Davis 1.4 Jockic 1.4 But, counting both offense and defense metrics, Jabbar and Duncan edge out Hakeem in performance.

[@RedRanchu]

He's the greatest big man because he has no weakness whether it be offense, defense or leadership and THAT is especially deadly come playoffs when coaches try to exploit your weakness which they cant do to with the Dream. There's only 1 player in the top 10 you can say that about too, and thats Michael Jordan.

[@sports360media]

THIS ☝️☝️☝️☝️ thanks for watching 👍