Penny Hardaway believes Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s game resembles a combination of his own style and that of Allen Iverson.
Speaking with Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson, Hardaway discussed several topics from his playing career, including his relationship with Shaquille O’Neal, his influence on Tracy McGrady and how he views the Oklahoma City Thunder star.
Robinson compared Gilgeous-Alexander to Hardaway because of his size and also noted similarities to Iverson because of his ability to change direction and create space.
“I see the same thing. I see the greatness, the speed bursts, the change of speed and getting to his spots,” Hardaway said.
“I see him shooting over people, going around people and making big shots. AI made big shots. So you’re right about that as far as the hybrid of myself and Allen. That’s a pretty dope mix right there.”
Hardaway also reflected on his influence on McGrady, who grew up in Florida and has frequently discussed Hardaway’s impact on his game.
“Probably Tracy. Tracy’s a Florida kid, so he knew more about me being from that Florida area right there. I would say Tracy,” Hardaway said.
“LeBron definitely respects my game, but out of the two, I would say Tracy McGrady. He wore the number because of me and he’s stated it a lot for sure.”
The former Orlando Magic star was also asked which modern NBA move most closely resembles O’Neal leaving Orlando for the Los Angeles Lakers in free agency.
Hardaway pointed to Giannis Antetokounmpo as a potential comparison, while also naming Ja Morant when considering a guard making a similar type of move.
“Man, what move resembles that? That’s a tough question, man, I’ve never been asked that,” Hardaway said. “As far as a guard making a move… Maybe Giannis has the Shaq vibe because he’s going to Miami to try to do some special things there—a championship city—and he wants to win one like in Milwaukee. So maybe he’ll make that move.”
“As far as a guard making that move? I never won one, but I made the move… I’ll go with Ja Morant.”
Hardaway was also asked about his memorable moments at Orlando games, including whether he ever wanted to dance when the DJ played George Clinton while he brought the ball up the court.
The former point forward laughed off the suggestion.
“I never wanted to dance, no. I was there with the basketball, so I never just dropped the basketball and started dancing. That was more Shaq and Dennis than me!”
Hardaway spent six seasons with the Magic before injuries limited the latter stages of his career. He remains one of the most influential players from Orlando’s early NBA era, while his playing style continues to be referenced when discussing modern oversized guards and point forwards.
