Shaq drops '$300 million' A'ja Wilson admission amid 'lowering the rim' debate

Shaq's admission

Ole Miss v LSU
Ole Miss v LSU | Jonathan Bachman/GettyImages

Should the WNBA lower the rim so players will dunk more? It is a debate that has been discussed for many years. NBA legend Shaquille O'Neal thinks it could help the game, while Las Vegas Aces star A'ja Wilson is against the idea. Shaq recently addressed the topic via an Instagram post.

O'Neal believes that more dunking could lead to more money for WNBA players. He even suggests that Wilson could make "$300 million" as a result of the league lowering the rims.

The chances of the WNBA lowering the rims are quite slim. WNBA players are used to how tall the baskets are now. Changing the height of the rim would force players to adjust their shots. It seems as if most WNBA players are opposed to paying that price for a few more dunks in games.

O'Neal, who had plenty of dunks during his NBA career, is simply trying to help the WNBA. However, the WNBA saw an immense increase in popularity this past season. The game is already trending in a promising direction.

A'ja Wilson won her third WNBA MVP Award in 2024. She is already the best player in the league. Would dunking help Wilson receive even more popularity? Possibly, but Wilson is already the face of the league.

Does the WNBA need more dunking?

In all reality, dunking does make basketball more exciting. With that being said, there is something to be said for the WNBA's current playstyle. Fundamentals are pivotal, and players do not typically save a broken play by driving to the basket and throwing down a dunk.

WNBA teams function as complete units. The goal is to get the best possible shot. Meanwhile, the NBA has become a league of primarily three-point attempts and dunks. The NBA still produces a tremendous product, but WNBA basketball is unique. It has a college basketball feel to it.

More dunking wouldn't hurt the WNBA, but the league does not necessarily need it. The league is in a great position at the moment. With the increase of star players and continued expansion, the WNBA will continue to grow in popularity.

With all of that being said, there will still be plenty of discussions about the "lowering the rim" argument. There will be no shortage of various opinions on the matter in the sports world. A'ja Wilson and other WNBA players will try to tune out the noise and place their focus on helping their teams win games.