This time on the attack, O'Neal gently tossed the ball into the basket under the pincer movement of Webber and Kukoc. Shaq wasn't just about slam dunks in the paint; he could finish in various ways.
After scoring, he didn't waste words with Webber but immediately got back on defense, not wanting to invite trouble.
In the second quarter of the game, O'Neal maintained restraint and held up the team's offense.
The interior line composed of Chris Webber and Kukoc was no match for O'Neal. If only the Bulls had Rodman at this moment, Shaq wouldn't have been so rampant.
Jordan was still scoring consistently, but O'Neal's threat left the Bulls unable to gain the upper hand.
However, the Bulls' nightmare finally dissipated with a foul.
With six minutes into the second quarter, Pippen decisively chose to attack the basket even though O'Neal was in perfect position.
The experienced Horace Grant knew what Pippen was trying to do, intending to protect the basket for Shaq.
