NBA Legends Explain How Good Hakeem Olajuwon Was

[@Professional_Dirtbag_Hippie]

The fact that Hakeem being pick over Jordan isn’t criticized at all really shows how dam great he was

[@ryankey4980]

Not even criticized by Jordan

[@degbry]

That is such a valid point.

[@umarchaudhary8633]

Hakeem Olajuwon lived in Houston and about three years ago when I was in grade seven, I went to a school called ‘Everest Academy’ and it was a Islamic school. We would pray in the mosque and Hakeem would usually come to the mosque to pray and there was once a time in which I was praying right next to him that moment was legendary.

[@laythadrian5705]

@@umarchaudhary8633 I've been to his Mosque in Houston several times but I've never seen him. I always felt guilty cause I'm suppose to be there for Allah so I would always work hard to make sure my intention was right, but there was always a part of me that wanted to see Hakeem too.

[@umarchaudhary8633]

@@laythadrian5705 have you ever heard of Everest academy's mosque? I bet if you go someday, there is a chance you'll meet him. I believe you'll meet him

[@umarchaudhary8633]

Hakeem Olajuwon lived in Houston and about three years ago when I was in grade seven, I went to a school called ‘Everest Academy’ and it was a Islamic school. We would pray in the mosque and Hakeem would usually come to the mosque to pray and there was once a time in which I was praying right next to him that moment was legendary.

[@lorddrac_dontaskmetodance]

That's sick, dude. Did you get a chance to interact with him?

[@umarchaudhary8633]

@@lorddrac_dontaskmetodance yeah, in Islam you’re supposed to have your feet beside the other persons feet with no gaps while praying in a mosque after doing a little prayer, I shook his hand and I said “I’m a fan”. He would usually come so I’ve met him more than once.

[@umarchaudhary8633]

And the school also had a basketball court in which he raised most of the money to build it

[@TILLEYJS]

Cool story. As you're praying... Thank you Allah for this blessing.

[@Thesolobeast-dm2st]

My dad and grandpa are from nigeria and my dad and grandpa are close with hakeem because they would prey at the same place and my grandpa was his “higher-up” (im not in the religon so forgive my terminology) but yeah it is really cool tho i never got to meet him

[@rajanshendre7177]

Hakeem was so good, I've never seen anyone complain about him being picked ahead of MJ in the '84 draft.

[@kenbrohere]

It helped that he played at UH.

[@davidolinger3948]

Lol yeah, poor Sam booing sandwiched between those two legends. Most agree mike is better, but either one is all you could ever ask for in a draft lol so no one cares which you got

[@sebclot9478]

@@davidolinger3948 In fairness to Bowie, he was a really good player who just couldn't stay healthy. He wasn't Jordan or Hakeem, but he wasn't some scrub either. I think he would have been an all-star one or twice if his body wasn't falling apart,. As bad as his health was he still managed a 15 ppg 10 rpg and 2 block season at age 28. And that was after injuries that were so bad he missed 271 games over 5 seasons and missed one season entirely. Not many guys miss 271 games and put up a quality season like that. Heck, I'm not sure ANYONE else has ever done that.

[@davidolinger3948]

@@sebclot9478 I know, in plenty of other draft classes him going 2nd would've been a great pick, but choosing him just cuz you need a center is still so bad over mj

[@dirklerxstpratt2112]

@@davidolinger3948 At the time of the draft, people knew Jordan was good but no one knew how good he would become.

[@albertanderson1474]

Jordan shut down this argument at the beginning. To have a center in the top 10 in five different categories especially in steals is unheard of. Case closed

[@johnmilon866]

yup.

[@jp3813]

Argument???

[@raphaelwilkes97]

Hakeem is the most skilled center ever had and a top 3 center ever

[@tropicmix8765]

He is the only player ever to lead the league in steals and blocks in the same season.

[@joshportie]

​@@raphaelwilkes97I can really only put Wilt above him if we're talking primes. Neither played as long as Kareem. Wilts problem was he listened to media criticism and let them work him but if we're talking pure skill and talent the two tower over everyone else imo at the position. If I could get both on the same team I'd play Hakeem at power forward. Nobody would be able to come inside the paint.

[@scurvyknave3462]

People don't talk enough about Hakeem's assist game. He would always find the open man out of the double team. He is also one of the handful of players to have recorded a quadruple double.

[@damonke79]

I agree. Very underrated passer. The years they won the finals, they surrounded him with great shooters and it was game over. As a Suns fan...I hated them with a passion. We had them down 3-1 both of those years and couldn't finish them.

[@scurvyknave3462]

@@damonke79 They showed that block he put on KJ during that '95 series. That, along with Mario Elie's "Kiss of Death" shot will always be considered defining moments in that series.

[@rei12figuresbusiness41]

I’m from Houston, I grew up watching Hakeem “The Dream” Olajuwon. He was the only Hall of Famer to win a championship with all roll players. Not even Jordan could do that

[@imsortaugly]

Super impressive and he was the only one with no all stars until Dirk in 2011 I believe

[@olaoye]

That is the typical spirit of a Nigerian man.

[@plantbasedministries9233]

Detroit Piston 04

[@rei12figuresbusiness41]

@@plantbasedministries9233 There were 3 players that made the All-Star team on that roster

[@plantbasedministries9233]

@@rei12figuresbusiness41 Ben Wallace was thee only all star on that team.

[@arnabiarnab3037]

Nobody complained that Houston picked him over Jordan.... that’s how good Hakeem was

[@DeauxTheGreat1990]

Facts. And they picked right.

[@bowsershark]

Amabi Yes, Clyde went to Portland management and told them to get Jordan. They wanted a corner stone center and the rest is history. And, there were many which complained prior to the title wins by the dream. He was a great center. But, Clyde and Jordan would have been crazy good.

[@lonnieknighton5971]

MJ was only mad about the dude that went #2 I think he even knew at the time that Dream was that good or going to be

[@dennisjr77]

Lol, and you couldn’t go wrong either way!!

[@chrisjackson8299]

They should!

[@the_rap_minstrel2557]

Life long Knicks fan here: He use to abuse Ewing, made Ewing look like a planted tree he moved so slow defending Hakeem.

[@mixumup1]

yup and Ewing wasnt looked at like a planted tree either

[@tlim]

During the finals they did a segment on how New Yorkers pronounced Houston St. All of us in Texas were like “Dafuq??” Sorry about Mario Elie, too. That was a tough 7 games. Starks was so good.

[@cliftonmcknight4659]

Those two had a rivalry going back to college.

[@Scottdvz]

@@tlim That's pretty funny, I was born a New Yorker and I agree! Great series btw, my Knicks lost but it was a good finals.

[@the_rap_minstrel2557]

@@Scottdvz In today's NBA Ewing would be a stretch 4, with those fade away Jumpers. Anthony Mason would be Dremond Green. And Oakley wouldn't be the NBA this fragile Cancel Culture would have labeled him violent he would have elbowed James Harden and got suspended for 900 games while James Harden Shot 901 consecutive free throws.

[@rafaelreyes9474]

Being from Houston and being 44 I’m more then happy that I got to see his career

[@alialikay6939]

Doesn't eat or drink during Ramadan and scores 40 points. Machine and Blessed 🙌

[@BruteStrength99]

He said the glory goes to Allah

[@clbo9878]

@@BruteStrength99 Glory goes to ALLAH? What glory and what Allah?

[@clbo9878]

Machine? Blessed? Doesn't eat or drink during Ramadan? 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@jeffsamuels2539]

I don’t think that’s how Ramadan works... But it was a very impressive feat.

[@AwafiKnight]

@@jeffsamuels2539 no food or water during the daylight. Luckily they play at night so he could have a meal and hydrate. Whereas theres quite a few NRL (Rugby League) players that play during the day witbout anything at all and atill perform at a high level

[@travist4923]

Nobody has anything bad to say about Hakeem . Ever

[@lusterallen2586]

I used to work out at the gym with Hakeem, he was the most down to earth, humble person I have ever met! He used to keep Nike sneakers in his trunk and he would just give them to whoever wanted them! Just a wonderful human being!

[@teezrodeo9278]

@@lusterallen2586 Yeah, and if I'm not mistaken, he got cut from a shoe brand, not sure which one, because he wanted to sell cheap shoes everyone could afford

[@geraldwilson1705]

Hakeem is the goat

[@jaleelel-shabazz5459]

You're absolutely correct, I don't think there is any other player in NBA history that can be said about.

[@travist4923]

Jaleel El-Shabazz was thinking david robinson as a runner up

[@LVSkinny]

That man was cold

[@austincooks7823]

Desirezonary001@gmailcom.

[@HIDDENDISCIPLEx7304]

skinny bro i been watching u since 2017 on yo reacts now u juss everywhere commenting big boss shit

[@kakimuniafu450]

@@HIDDENDISCIPLEx7304 ...hehehe!

[@kingdomgrindin1]

His footwork was unmatched, athletic, super high basketball IQ and the softest touch. I'm glad I was able to witness him in his prime.

[@lauramorgan2928]

Even better than his footwork,his humbleness was outmatched!

[@truthbombs-ii7ke]

Was thinking the same thing myself, solid gold that guy!

[@chuckbrooks2271]

Greatest center guard ever. Ask M.J.

[@ludvigwittgenstein6469]

The only person I can think of with better footwork is Kobe tbh. Hakeem is the most talented Center ever.

[@gwynedd1]

At that size, yes. Watch Kevin McHale in the low post and you see that foot work all day.

[@24TreSter]

His spin speed is incredible. I also really like the way after he scores, he immediately turns and runs down the court to set up on D. Top 3 big man of all time IMO

[@tlim]

Dream Shake!

[@syedrameen4529]

For me he’s number 4

[@joeyh31]

Top 1 tbh

[@jeffsamuels2539]

Wilt Hakeem and KAJ? Asking for a friend

[@jeffsamuels2539]

@@syedrameen4529 who you got ahead of him?!

[@JonB44DD]

One of the reasons that Hakeem was so smooth is something that often gets overlooked. He started out playing football (what we call soccer). When I first was introduced to this in Germany, I was highly impressed with the skills necessary to control the ball with just your feet while moving up and down the field for two periods of 45 minutes. That is what truly I believe made Hakeem be able to move the way he did.

[@nagomizik9358]

Yup! And Specially playing football inNigeria! Natural footwork!

[@kitrik23]

Goalies don't move up and down the field but I see your point

[@glen7137]

​​@@kitrik23Hakeem also played volleyball and handball

[@StiXx593]

I can’t believe how fast his crossovers are for a big guy.

[@suntansuperman26]

He was fast for a big guy on the whole. Only player with 200+ steals and 200+ blocks in a season. Like really, a center with 200+ steals, who tf does that?

[@mercedesbenzs600bash]

His whole game was SICK...

[@mohamadasap1689]

He's not just fast for big guys... I think even if you compare him with guards he is still fast

[@citisoccer]

Hakeem was fast with his handles, shakes, and moves for a basketball player, not a big guy. Future HOF guards studied his footwork, but it's beyond difficult to study natural ability. He just FELT it, and made it look so effortless. He played so hard, but looked so damn smooth. Legend.

[@atate23]

It was basic as hell lol but smoother than a mf and big men couldnt stop it lol

[@gaddyify]

Hakeem would destroy the inside game of today

[@darylbrown199]

He was destroying it against one of the best defenders in David Robinson back then too.

[@gerardrbain1972]

@@darylbrown199 He made the NBA's MVP look like a elementary school child.

[@DeauxTheGreat1990]

All these Centers these days have devolved. They either Are stretch 5s with a weak paint game, or Athletic 5s that can only dunk. Hakeem was Perfect at Basketball. Literally Perfect. No Flaws in His Game.

[@felipearevalo2618]

@@DeauxTheGreat1990the game changing killed the bigman and inside game. Understand that the way refs call the games influences everything, its not that the talent isnt there. Calling every little contact as a foul killed the bigman, what advantage does size have if you cant use it to your advantage? 3pt shooting did as well as big men have to be fast enough to defend the 3.

[@darylbrown199]

@@gerardrbain1972 More like preschoolers. LOL! One of my favorite all-time players

[@fun-vids6669]

Realistically he’s the greatest player of all time hands down! He retired in the top 10 and top 5 of almost every offensive and defensive category and in his prime no compares

[@sebclot9478]

He is certainly in the discussion.

[@ohkay2360]

Not greatest best is b different and this is cap wasn't no where near 3pts 3pts % asts apg ppg rpg ft% fg% just to name a few

[@Propain4eva]

He can probably beat any nba player in their prime 1 on 1

[@JamesBond-jd8xo]

Hakeem was the heart of the Houston rockets. He was unstoppable, quick, excellent vision, very smart player. That spin was just no comparison, his fade-away was unbelievable. His game was blessed in a lot of ways. As a player, he doesn’t say much, except in the basketball court, that’s why Michael Jordan said it himself, Hakeem was a nightmare to go against with. Well said Jordan..

[@bambam6537]

Best Center ever IMO, never seen anything like him before him or after him

[@sirf4ce]

The most complete big man that ever existed!

[@MrDotaleavers]

Wilt is by far the most complete athlete, basketball is only a portion of it.

[@sirf4ce]

@@MrDotaleavers I don't give a fuck about athlete! This is about basketball! Wilt couldn't shoot free throws to save his mama's life! He shot layup finger rolls over 6 foot centers. Stat whores look at Wilt and think he was the best center ever. Wilt was physically gifted but he had nowhere near the game Dream had! Dream shits on Wilt!

[@mrobitwice77]

He’s the most complete center in nba history. He had no, and I mean NO, weaknesses

[@tannerkelley4844]

That's right tell them best center ever

[@JiovanniDaMatrix]

7:58 I just realized, The Dream was doing that one legged Dirk shot way before Dirk. Dirk made it a signature shot though.

[@jekkt]

wow true. they slightly tweaked the angle but its the same shot.

[@iess2006]

Wilt invented that shot for big men...unstoppable.

[@trentonayershandsoffire3620]

To think that this generation is thinking this is the best generation of NBA. Imagine if the availability of training and technology was around. Not only the the 70's or 80's but 50 and 60's...

[@trentonayershandsoffire3620]

I didn't really realize that Olajuwon's ability to stretch the floor at @6:24

[@antedzin6610]

@@trentonayershandsoffire3620 i think I saw a video where kareem coach said in todays nba with training, technology and everything kareem would be taller, stronger and more athletic version of kevin durant

[@cks2020693]

When you make a center and has 99 in all attributes and all badges, you get Hakeem

[@pierregibson6699]

Bingo, Hakeem Literally would Average a Quadruple Double, in the NBA today it would literally look like a video game 🎮 this man led the league in steals and Blocks for a couple of years 🤯 and stayed in the top 10 in those categories for years....Maaaannnn the Dream stats would be insane now

[@jumahamis227]

@@pierregibson6699 and he wanted to play soccer he played basketball just by accident and went to dominate the game 😆.

[@tagacale1733]

Dude was the secret player you have to unlock to play in 2K

[@fmc-4]

Except 3pointers but it don’t do much anyways

[@fngaming5064]

@@pierregibson6699 he wouldn’t have nearly as many blocks

[@ChillTownHoops]

“It’s a good thing they can’t ever get outta the west bcuz we got no answer for that monster they got.” -Michael Jordan 1992

[@jeisreis5083]

@Baxter James lol, Keep lying Jordanite! Jordan was a punching bag of Thomas and Bird, won when those 2 were old and have injuries. Jordan won when there 4 expansion teams, 6-0 playing shitty ass teams. Can't do shit without Pippen and coach Phil.

[@ChillTownHoops]

@Baxter James “not that Hakeem wasn’t out of this world but he didn’t deliver the trophy’s.” Baxter,(can I call you Baxter?) you are aware the Rockets won the nba championship in back to back seasons(93-94 94-95) and Olajuwon was league mvp defensive player of the yr and finals mvp in the same season? Jordan wasn’t bein kind. When he said that, it was Dec 1992, the Bulls had just lost to the Rockets for the 5th time in 6 games and Olajuwon dominated them. Jordan didn’t just say that to be nice. He didn’t want nuthin to do wit Olajuwon and he was very happy they couldn’t get out the west.

[@pop300h7]

@@ChillTownHoops facts

[@elamun8950]

@@jeisreis5083 how old are you?

[@cecilb3216]

@Baxter James what jordan meant was at the time the west was full of powerhouse teams and a lot of superstars. They wore themselves out in the west playoffs and were easy pickens for jordan and crew. And if you dought how good hakeem was KZbin him.

[@bentep0511]

The Rockets was never ridiculed for taking Hakeem over Jordan.

[@bobbygray3186]

It was a big man league back then..jordan was considered to short

[@TheNightOwlKS]

The only thing the Rockets were ever criticized about in that draft was not trading Ralph Samson to the Blazers for the #2 pick, which they could have used to pick Jordan. I think Drexler may have been in that deal as well (can't remember for sure).

[@shrekman9770]

@@TheNightOwlKS at the time ralph sampson was a beast and was about to become the next bill russell until he got injured

[@sebclot9478]

@@TheNightOwlKS That account came out much later. It was never confirmed. If it was true, then boy did the Rockets miss a golden opportunity. Drexler, Jordan, AND Olajuwon, in their prime? Yikes!!!!

[@sebclot9478]

@@bobbygray3186 Well, yes. However, a big reason the pick isn't criticized is that they were comparable prospects coming out of college. Bowie was the next tier down. It wasn't just hindsight or positional, though that did play a part.

[@IronHorsey3]

Shaq's honesty how great Akeem was is the best. How Akeem would laugh off his attempts to throw him off his game with an elbow. Just classic.

[@zaindabhi1623]

Hakeem*

[@ralphmilleriii9957]

Shaq also complained during that Finals series. Shaq told the reporters something like.. "I don't know how you can start in the paint and end up taking a jumper from the top of the key.." Shaq was pretty much accusing The Dream of traveling. 😂😂😂

[@user-tw4sp8se9i]

@@zaindabhi1623 No his real name is Akeem

[@zaindabhi1623]

@@user-tw4sp8se9i no it isn't anymore because he changed his name to hakeem so its actually in Arabic

[@user-tw4sp8se9i]

@@zaindabhi1623 No yea I know that I meant to type was instead of is

[@vaughnmiller4371]

And Hakeem "the dream" Olajuwon and feared no one. The most skillful and versatile center of all time.

[@todrickwilliams7082]

You better believe it! I played center and power forward in high school i learned a few moves from this guy he was phenomenal!!

[@osobad1127]

Hakeem is super underrated. He had the fundamentals of Kareem the scoring of wilt the defense of russel and out of this world footwork. He should be considered the best !

[@goosnavslakovic4908]

There are a few players like Larry and wilt that I genuinely think have a fair potential GOAT case. Hakeem is def one of them.

[@antdel33]

Hakeem’s footwork was first developed playing soccer.

[@Ghanaba23]

True

[@joemagarac405]

He was a keeper - explains a lot.

[@PJErvin]

@@joemagarac405 Didn’t know he was a goalie, as soccer-ignorant people from the US Southeast like me say.

[@calkelpdiver]

Hakeem was "discovered" while messing around with a b-ball. He was being looked at as a Goalie by some teams in Africa before he switched over to basketball. He played football (soccer) since he was a kid. I was a Goalie because of my basketball skills as a Guard. Played both sports growing up. But yeah, for a big man Hakeem had awesome quickness & foot skills and at times played like a guard during a game. You had to stick with him on D or he would just eat you alive.

[@wtfx5757]

@@calkelpdiver Yep. Steve Nash also is/was quite good at football. A lot of the European guys start out playing football before they ever dreamed of the NBA...I think it helps quite a bit. But Hakeem....unstoppable...just hope he has an off night.

[@mikekillagreen9432]

He had guards training with him to learn his footwork. This is a Center we're talking about! Kobe and Lebron went to train with him. Unreal.

[@Nokosi]

Facts! 💯💯

[@jamesking6030]

And he charged $50,000 per lesson. Lol

[@mikekillagreen9432]

@@jamesking6030 You're just enhancing my point. Thank you

[@jamesking6030]

What else could've I have been doing? I think its amazing that the best of the best are paying for lessons. Who else on planet earth could do that? Only Dream could.

[@michael_caz_nyc]

"Big Facts" Hakeem was a Freakshow = Super Talented.

[@onixmelendez]

When he was in college and early on in his career, he could jump out of the building. Underrated jumping ability. Him and Clyde together in College was must watch TV

[@Flow-J.Simpson]

Phi slamma jamma, I just missed it cuz of my age but my dad raved about them

[@flitemedic55]

Phi Slamma Janna… they were great watch

[@dcc70]

A lot of people can jump. Hakeem combined it with anticipation, positioning, and perfectly timed jump. He also had great hand eye coordination, that's how he got so many steals.

[@AJtheRastaman]

him & Kareem are the unquestioned 2 best centers of my lifetime.

[@omarrsullivan4516]

Facts

[@joemarr5383]

Supa fax

[@mikebiermann9915]

@@omarrsullivan4516 you are probably too young to have seen Wilt...check the records Wilt holds...end of story

[@mikebiermann9915]

@@joemarr5383 Wilt GOAT PERIOD.

[@omarrsullivan4516]

@@mikebiermann9915 I'm not taking nothing from Wilt, but like i stated in my lifetime. I'm 45

[@pnicely]

His footwork comes from his previous soccer skills.....most soccer players who transition to basketball shows excellent footwork.......Kobe included....

[@akkustomzink1914]

Yep 👍

[@syeda727]

2x MVP Steve nash as well iirc

[@bronxbully6261]

Nah bro footwork was from Moses malone soccer help his versatility

[@WilScoto]

That’s why embiid has good footwork. Played soccer

[@zyggyzrolls5812]

I think is the other way around.. look at Messi, the way he pass the defender is like a basketball cross over, breaking angkles and body movement. Foot work are depend on the creativity and training

[@jamievidd775]

Grew up watching the Dream. And there isn’t an exaggerated word when describing him. He was that good. One of the best centers of all time. Played the position like no other.

[@jaydrains2247]

“ nice elbow brudda “. LoL !!

[@cheguevara6198]

😭😭😭

[@rrod7958]

That was funny lol

[@robertjones8260]

Then came down on the other end and gave Shaq the business 😂

[@vernharris2708]

The man was a center playing like a small forward💪🏿🏀🦁

[@PaesJAO]

The dream was a phenomenal player. I’m so fortunate to have seen him play.

[@roryivey]

Damn... this dude moved like KD, but stronger in the paint and better footwork. crazy for a center..

[@dipo2142]

same thing i was discussing with my friend yesterday

[@Az-dc4nu]

Havent seen anybody on this thread give credit to the late 3 time MVP Moses Malone who helped elevate Akeem's game in the pro's after he left U of H.

[@laz0rama]

excellent point. the chairman of the boards was a stud. talk about the student surpassing the master.

[@hurkulisegarcia8278]

Better believe it,Moses Malone,straight out of High school,Chairman of the Boards!!When you hear folk say before there was Jordan,there was Dr.J,well now,same thing applies here,except Moses had Hakeem daily in his lab to perfect what eventually came to be a work of art,a master piece,a clone of himself,down to the nitty gritty,work out ethics and all!!

[@tresmooth74]

Yep..Moses Malone use to give Hakeem the business at The Fonde Center back in the day.

[@thomasscott1570]

@@tresmooth74 moses gave everyone the business

[@onelove81568]

7 ft 3 Ralph Sampson Was A Big Help Too

[@michellewright99]

I didn't realize how good he was! I didn't understand the game and how hard certain nuances were as a teen. So watching this as an adult, I have a new respect for Mr. Olajuwon.

[@jameswilliams2085]

Hakeem is easily top 5 greatest players of all-time. HE WAS THE TOTAL PACKAGE AND DIDN'T HAVE NO WEAKNESSES IN HIS GAME!!!

[@user-jn3is7zh4i]

Who’s your top 5?

[@jameswilliams2085]

@@user-jn3is7zh4i Jordan, Kobe, Durant,Olajuwon, LeBron!!!!

[@user-jn3is7zh4i]

@@jameswilliams2085 Imo I don’t think KD is better than Kareem, Duncan, Magic, Bird, and Shaq on an All-time list.

[@jameswilliams2085]

@@user-jn3is7zh4i Bird and Magic are not better than KD And LeBron!!!

[@TTFMjock]

@@jameswilliams2085 They are better than KD.

[@bentonvillefamily]

A few things: 1. Hakeem was a soccer goalkeeper in high school as to how he got his great footwork. He never played basketball until late in high school when the coach asked him if he wanted to help their team. 2. The Rockets always beat the Bulls and Vernon Maxwell was the best defender against Jordan (in which Jordan admitted). The second year the Rockets won a championship, Jordan actually played. Jordan lost to the Orlando Magic in which the Rockets ended up sweeping. 3. The year Hakeem won the MVP, he had all his team come up and help him hold the MVP trophy up (as to say it was team work). Yes, Dreams work, made the team work. 4. Funny story, as Hakeem was pulling out of the garage after a game, a few of us lined up to get an autograph. Hakeem pulled over to sign. I was last and gave him my sharpie and my card. He started to get ready to sign it, looked at the time and said “I have to go, I have to go”, then gave me my card back but kept my sharpie. 4. My family did a remodel construction for his house and he was so nice to everyone. They said he was the nicest man they ever met.

[@AmaOnyeOgabu]

Did you ever get your sharpie back? Just curious

[@sk98ification]

Thanks for sharing, those are some interesting stories, he's a real gentle giant

[@israeldiosdado949]

Simply the greatest center of all time.

[@JessicaJones-me6sp]

Joe Dumars of the Pistons used to keep Jordan in check too.

[@CapitalJJ]

3:57 Those one hand pump fakes, spins, dream shakes fadeaways, and up and under moves are just beautiful to watch.

[@bobbenbrown123]

Smooth as silk and fluid as butter

[@357Amun]

Pure poetry in MOTION! What a beautiful sight! I miss seeing him play. Haven't seen anything else like it.

[@vaughnmcdowell1873]

Jordan got this right, he was a beast. One of the greatest center of All Time

[@davidthomas7834]

It's hard to say who the best is at anything when you're comparing different eras. Everybody won't agree.I would have to give it to Hakeem. Wilt a close second. Nobody could stick with H but he could d up anybody while in the greatest era of skilled centers

[@davidthomas7834]

I really don't think Wilt could guard Hakeem. I write that knowing how much of an athletic freak Wilt was. Hakeem was to skilled

[@chadpru892]

Akeem as great as he is thought of, is still the most underrated player in NBA history.

[@BigJonahJ]

I remember having to do a report on a famous person once in 7th grade I chose Hakeem cause I didn't know much about him but heard all the great things said, he became one of my favorites immediately

[@jessicadunkin7734]

best center i ever saw play..

[@iambrooklyn3100]

@Jessica Dunkin hands down top 5 center of all time.... Russell, chamberlain, Abdul Jabbar, Olajuwon, and Shaq n my eye I’m talking total dominance...💪🏿💪🏿💪🏿

[@williebender1895]

His foot work was no joke due to soccer

[@waynegorman6890]

I agree

[@killpaleface3279]

@@iambrooklyn3100 No he was the best Center of all-times the Dream

[@ChocolateIce0928]

Best Center, ever.... Period

[@jdoes1991]

Bill Simmons said something along the lines of we are more likely to see the next MJ before we see the next Hakeem. Couldn’t agree more.

[@jasoneffler9903]

Hakeem was my favorite center back in the day!

[@gjslaughter]

Last play was a young version of The Dream giving Robert Parish a taste. That was a sign of things to come...

[@analogueconsciousness8112]

Question: How many ways could Hakeem beat you? Answer: Yes.

[@kimbroedwards154]

Question : how good was he? Answer: absolutely 😂😂

[@brettv144]

These stupid comments fishing for likes are really getting old and annoying

[@analogueconsciousness8112]

@@brettv144 And yet here you are Mr. Miserable AF.

[@moorstring]

I hate this crap.

[@Only2GendersCommonSense]

@@brettv144 👈 owned. Can I get a like?!

[@hamacus]

I saw him DESTROY David Robinson in a playoff game at the Alamo dome back in the day. It was so sad seeing him trot back down court with his head down after dream shake after dream shake, dunk after dunk , with no ability to stop Hakeem. As a Spurs fan at the time I could not even be mad because this guy was so great you had to give him his props. Everyone I was sitting near felt the same way . Grew up in L.A. and saw Wilt, Kareem, and Shaq live. Hakeem is definitely in the conversation of best center of all time.

[@mythtek1]

That was one game and one series Robinson had a 30-12 record vs Olajuwon and sometimes he would destroy Hakeem. It just so happens Robinson wasn’t himself that series Rodman and him weren’t getting along and Rodman would not step in to double Hakeem and the Rockets knew that and kept feeding him. Robinson was one of the best defenders but he couldn’t do it alone Hakeem had a killer’s mentality and Robinson relied on his athleticism too much he wasn’t a Krafty defender. Still Robinson put up 24 p on 16 attempts pg 11 boards while Olajuwon put up 35 pg on 27 attempts pg with 12 boards

[@imaluthier218]

@@mythtek1 you may take into consideration that because of Hakeem, Robinson couldn’t get the looks he needed to make the attempts and that is why Admiral paled in comparison in that series…Hakeem was a master of making his opposing players make more assists and passes than shot attempts.

[@mythtek1]

@@imaluthier218 If you really go back and rewatch the games you will see that Robinson was consistently double or triple teamed whenever he tried to take it to the hole. The Spurs didn’t have any sharpshooters so the Rockets could afford to send help but the Rockets were stacked with sharpshooters Kenny Smith, Cassell, Drexler, Horry even Elie and that left Robinson to have to guard Olajuwon 1 on 1

[@MuadDib_]

Yeah, The Admiral vs The Dream was always exciting. Robinson was great but Hakeem was excellent.

[@tonypena5148]

Has anyone ever stopped to think that Olajuwan had to work extra hard to put up in that series because Robinson's defense made him get to that extra level. No other center made him work as hard as Robinson.

[@34stzoo]

Notice how Micahel did NOT try to recruit him to play with him. MJ rather played against him and we all know if they'd teamed up, 10 chips easily!

[@gc9376]

Easily

[@4ever167]

If they teamed up it would’ve been so broken😭😭

[@JustLikeHeaven77]

They've got 8 already, lol.

[@arcdestriumph586]

I'm glad players care about winning... instead of just money - That's a good thing. Trying to say someone is disloyal or wrong for trying to get on a winning team is a sad joke. Competitiveness is a tool for all situations.

[@daddyeyez740]

Notice how Jordan's front office built around him? MJ didn't get taken for granted by his front office and they did right by him so he didn't HAVE to do it himself.

[@obi-juan2926]

I was a student at the University of Houston in the mid-90's. Thanks, Hakeem, for making my time in H-Town so memorable!

[@danielvandusen5724]

It was weird during those 2 championship runs with the dream and are three point shooting. You just never feared being behind and the number of last second wins became so abundant that it was just expected that Hakeem would do a last second stop followed by a pass to Horry or Ellie for a game winning 3. It was great to be a Rockets fan during that time. Houston has had so few great moments in sports, I was glad that I got to be around for that one.

[@djmateo7134]

Vernon Maxwell is underrated too. Dude was clutch.

[@danielvandusen5724]

@@djmateo7134 Yeah, you're right. I forget about Maxwell because of the trade but he instrumental with hitting last second shots to win the first championship. It was crazy how many games the Rockets won with last second 3-point shots during the playoffs of those 2 seasons.

[@Fordance100]

Ellie made a lot of the corner 3s. Give credit to coach Rudy too. They don't have second super star. Clyde Drexler was already outside his prime during the second championship.

[@andymullarx6365]

He was the silkiest smoothest big man the game has ever seen.

[@mugpush4816]

I remember seeing him as a kid when he was with Phi Slamma Jamma.... and when he went to my hometown Rockets, I cried tears of joy!

[@DonaldDraper4]

The best fundamentals of movement. Thats why he still teaches the fundamentals to the existing “super stars”. They train together really. He is also a good teacher.

[@AliAhmed-nk1rg]

I’m not sure what exactly happened in 1995, I think this what happened. First round Eliminated Karl Malone and John Stockton. Second round eliminated Charles Barkley and the Phoenix. Third round eliminated David Robinson and the Spurs. NBA finals he swept Shaq and the Orlando Magic. Impressive resume?

[@alfieburns3979]

I think that's theoretically the hardest run to a championship in NBA history as well.

[@raphaelwilkes97]

@@alfieburns3979 it is

[@marckellough529]

That's the story of his career '94 and '95.He gets a free pass for the other 16 years he played and never came close to winning anything

[@bobbenbrown123]

​@@alfieburns3979yep Hakeem did it against ALL HALL OF FAMERS! John Stockton and Karl Malone, Charles Barkley, David Robinson and Shaquille O'Neal

[@redd6399]

The Dream did Robert Parish REAL DIRTY on the last dunk on the video .....Literally made me LOL 🤣

[@c.e.anderson558]

For some reason the refs let everybody beat up on Hakeem. I watched all those years and he rarely shot a foul shot after a basket. But he also rarely complained.

[@lloydhudson6463]

Very true

[@smeckthebeck]

@@lloydhudson6463 yes indeed, unlike the superstars nowadays.....they WHINING....

[@Scaley_Reptile]

Proper African mate, tough as nails.

[@FuShengAlex]

He sure blew fuse vs Kupchak in 86 lol. Also Billy Paultz

[@SamReeceCollections]

Daaamn! He was way ahead of his time 😮

[@BruhBrew]

I'm a 53 year old LA native and I have always held Hakeem as my favorite player, even though he cost my Lakers a couple of chips. I have been exposed to Magic, Kareem, Jordan, Shaq, Kobe... all great and favorable players but The Dream was the best and in my opinion the most underrated.

[@JPitty2011]

"He came down and gave me a ha ha ha ha" LMBO!!!

[@Jayofteror]

Hakeen is one of the greatest players ever to walk on a basketball court. He was unstoppable on both sides of the court. A complete player with a killer instinct that even MJ feared. :)

[@JonnyJungle77]

Being a Houston Rockets fan in the early to mid 90's was awesome. Dream was an absolute marvel, talk about poetry in motion.

[@traslenpatterson3478]

Jordan didn't fear Hakeem, he respected what Hakeem brought to the table far as what problems he presented we you played against him.

[@ecnumber1fan]

True but I believe that they both had tremendous respect for each other.

[@avithemostill]

imo he did fear olojuwon because mj knew he was the only player whose game (fundamentals, footwork, jumpshot etc.) could rival his. Plus he was like 7 feet

[@quintonluster4886]

Jordan could only be as good as the team took them so he feared a whole lot more than he says. He didn't fear Larry Bird? or the Celtics? Nor the whole Pistons squad with Rodman included.? Those are just a few examples. Mike is delusional or he knows there's still enough ignorant people to carry his bullshttt. Dam Mike you still makin lots of money. Is this really necessary. 👑 King James is another player Mike fears. LOL😀😝

[@traslenpatterson3478]

@@quintonluster4886 Jordan fear LeBron????????????????????????????????????.....HOW????????🤔

[@quintonluster4886]

@@traslenpatterson3478 LOL Hit dogs will hola . 😀😝 Yep it's enough ignorant people to carry Mikes bullshttt. He feared Magic Johnson too. Jabar. The list goes on and on. Bye dummies. LOL

[@SidLaw500]

Hakeem had it all in abundance: championships, MVP's, outrageous stats on both sides of the ball, and, like Steph Curry and Michael Jordan, he was really fun to watch.

[@mrvk39]

one thing Hakeem lacked - all-star teammates during his prime in the early to mid 1990s. Houston got Cassell and Horry ( two great role players) and it was enough for Hakeem to get a ring. Imagine him having someone of a caliber of Pippen next to him through his prime? Someone like Payton or maybe Reggie? It could've been the greatest rivalry of all times with the Bulls with 3-4 Finals of them going toe-to-toe. I don't think Bulls would get their 6 rings then.

[@michaelulbricht9438]

First watching him play at Houston Hakeem ran the floor like a guard. He had a vast array of moves. Was a great defender, and fantastic demeanor!

[@madadisr]

As a 6'0 bball player in the gym, I realized im one of the taller players on the court and my athleticism dwindling... I've watched and picked up on so many inside moves from both Hakeem and Kevin Mchale to make me effective on this inside. Best post players ever.

[@keymoturnbull3380]

Yes The Dream was a force 2 reckon with. One of the best centers ever IN THE HISTORY OF BASKETBALL. BEASTTTTTTT! SHAQ is highly rated also no one person could ever never everrr make a mistake 2 guard him have 2 double & triple

[@sschevmale24]

Shaq was good but kareem was better and Moses would muscle him up. Yao had his way a lot with shaq. Hakeem murdered him in 95

[@codysmith5260]

Dennis Rodman gave shaq fits

[@dennisjr77]

I would take Hakeem over SHAQ... more complete player (lol... and a lot better free throw shooter!). SHAQ didn’t have the work ethic.

[@bob69075]

I watched him through his entire career and he rarely missed shots, so amazing to watch him play a unstoppable force he was.

[@ronalddelrosario7405]

The 3 best post players I've ever seen were Hakeem, Duncan and McHale. They could all do every post move and counter. They all had incredible footwork. They all had great work ethic and perfected their craft. But Hakeem also had that quickness and athleticism that Duncan and McHale didn't have and that's what made him special. Some folks don't remember that Hakeem never really played basketball until college. I think he was a football (soccer) goalkeeper growing up. It's no wonder he had such great footwork.

[@davidmejorado855]

He's always have been nasty, I love his game. Everyone models they're game after him.

[@williebrown3691]

The man. Dream. My Favorite center of all time.

[@45GOAT47]

HAKEEM BEST CENTER EVER & MOST COMPLETE !☝🏽

[@jonathanwiggins5366]

Not even close

[@Karll541]

Hakeem isn’t talked about enough. So versatile. He avg more steals than most guards lol

[@jonathanwiggins5366]

@@Karll541 He wasn't respected enough in his day, but looking at KZbin the trend seems to have over corrected in the other direction.

[@dennisjr77]

I concur! Most “complete,” but not most dominant! (There’s a difference!). That being said..... IM TALKING HAKEEM OVER EVERYONE ELSE AND TWICE ON SUNDAYS! (to be honest though.... he reminds me more of a PF..... more like Mchale with the post moves)

[@FuShengAlex]

@@jonathanwiggins5366 yes close

[@simplysimple7628]

Notice how all these greats they talk about are all from that 80’s, 90’s era???🤔🤷🏽‍♂️ Yeah that’s right. The MJ era. The you had to earn it era. The most intense and loved era in the history of the NBA. Miss those days.😔🙏🏼

[@FuShengAlex]

The 80s n 90s were magic, Bird Isiah, Jordan and Hakeems era

[@deking1973]

The level of respect they have for one another speaks greatly about their skills, personalities and work ethic. So hard to in today's version of the NBA. Very few players speak so well about others or show such a high level of discipline.

[@indirussell7083]

@@deking1973 exactly, back then they loved the game it wasn't personal, they really loved the game. And would hang out and call each other on the ohone. The media tried to make them enemies to sell tickets

[@kflo7696]

Yes, Absolutely correct. Players now are spoiled brats! Fame, money, etc...they don’t play defense, they pat their own backs...e.g. On the top of the list is Lebron..

[@gl6996]

@@kflo7696 Do you see these contracts? Guys who would have been role players at best are making $10, 15, 20 mil/ yr!!!

[@irvinperkins1411]

Once Moses Malone took Akeem under his belt. It was simply over. His college days was a prelude for things to come. I never missed a Houston Cougar's game. Dude was a force. Revolutionized the game.

[@cylebennett6192]

I always wanted to play like the dream . One of the first players I idolized. His quick spin move in the low post was poetry in motion. Plus an absolute quality person His shoes were sold at Payless for like 25 Shows you he felt all kids deserved a halfway decent shoe.

[@justind1770]

My favorite center. I even have his graded rookie card. Had Sampson not gotten injured he would have had a lot more rings.

[@OMFGimmaBABYDADDY]

If Sampson was solid...

[@wade8418]

I was a young man during the 80, 90 and Hakeem kept me glued to the Tv. His move and work ethic just amazing. Thank you sir the dance was beautiful .

[@brianlohse7672]

Greatest memories in Houston Sports history.

[@rogercoleman8515]

Don't know how I keep forgetting about him..you want a challenge to Jordan for the goat..it's this guy

[@alvinduran5540]

The Dream is my favorite player of all time. I remember as a kid, i would go to the park and work one his post moves all day. Im only 5'8 so im definitely not a post player, but i would post guys twice my size up and just bust some fades on they ass or the left shoulders. Always got em with the left shoulder. Thanks Dream, it was a pleasure watching you compete.

[@seanwilliams2764]

G.O.A.T we miss you! M.J

[@DeeWunnHybrid]

Maaayne lemme tell you! MJ my fav hooper but even I feared Hakeem …that man deadly bruhhh 🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@mattblackburn4047]

Hakeem was unbelievable... it's great to hear all these guys give him mad respect 💯

[@Mr.International82]

The reason Hakeem moved so well and effortlessly is because of his soccer background. Great foot work from such a tall athlete

[@jayurgrier9167]

One of the greatest centers of all time……Glad I was able to follow his career….

[@SleepCycle1]

I actually prayed next to Hakeem before I even got into basketball and my cousin told me who he was and I said hi to him he was such a down to earth and calm guy. What a skillful big in the game he was.

[@ernestnallen]

My unpopular opinion is that Dream should be brought up more in GOAT conversations.. I still got Jordan but Dream deserves that respect.

[@dirklerxstpratt2112]

GOAT conversations are stupid and meaningless. It's fine with me that he isn't brought up more. Olajuwon and Jordan are two totally different players. Both of them are outstanding at what they did. Why can't we just appreciate that without having to put that stupid GOAT label on it?

[@billyonunga]

Hakeem Olajuwon was just unstoppable!!!

[@hectorlopez1069]

Unstoppable even Jordan could not beat him.

[@thunderrushmovie8834]

Those chanpionship years in Houston were just something GREAT 👌

[@coachrobinson9958]

You have to understand, Olajuwan grew up playing soccer. Thus, his masterful NBA HOF FOOTWORK! 😁

[@scottsteel4230]

HAKEEM WAS SUPERNATURAL.

[@Illuminatethedark_]

The part in the video when MJ said that “I only feared Hakeem” was the best.

[@JQM2020]

Alhamdulillah! May Allah bless Hakeem and have mercy on him. One of the best to play the game.

[@tarrikomar1]

In my generation he was the first dude that made me proud of the H

[@nebur59]

Thanks for posting Hakeem is my favorite non-Laker of all time. If I could re-start my playing career and play then with what I know now I would have patterned my game off of his! Thank you Hakeem for entertaining me.

[@cochise2552]

I’ve never heard MJ say he feared a player.... those were Robert Horry’s words lol.

[@alvincook8970]

trust me... he said it

[@richardmanuel9812]

@@alvincook8970 no he didn't he respected him

[@oneyedthing]

@Aaron9 This aint no Marvel/DC movie. Not only did Jordan feared Olajuwon, he had to deal with Mad Max as well. Resulting to almost every lose everytime they meet. 1991-1993

[@lamarmurrell1254]

So why didnt Houston win when Jordan came back

[@oneyedthing]

@@lamarmurrell1254 Better question is why did MJ lose when he came back. Answer is MJ + Pippen weren't enough. Best thing that happened to MJ's legacy was when he retired. 1994-1995 were the Rockets made out of the west. The same year MJ was retired. No way MJ is winning the 1994 finals.