O'Neal guarded the rebound as the cheers inside the United Center began to diminish.
This teetering dynasty seemed about to be toppled.
With complete confidence, Shaq called for the ball at the free throw line. Facing Longley, who was dragged out and befuddled, Shaq used a guard-like move between his legs to rush past the Australian's defense. Just when everyone thought he would go straight to the basket, O'Neal paused under the hoop, baited Longley, then spun and slammed the ball over the rushing defender Kukoc!
In one play, Shaq displayed both a guard's breakthrough ability and Olajuwon-like footwork under the basket!
11 to 2!
In the ensuing play, Kukoc finally got a chance for a three-pointer after a series of movements.
At that moment, Horace Grant was temporarily unable to guard him due to a screen without the ball. But as Kukoc began his shooting motion, Roger immediately switched over.
Trouble again!