CLEVELAND (AP) — Like most NBA fans, Shaquille O’Neal plans to watch LeBron James’ return to Cleveland on Thursday night.
O’Neal wants to see James do his “powder thing.” As part of his pregame ritual, James fills his hands with a white resin to better grip the ball. Then he tosses it in the air.
James does it before every game, home or away. O’Neal played with James in Cleveland last season and isn’t sure the two-time MVP will go through with it in front of the expected hostile Cleveland crowd.
O’Neal spoke before shootaround Tuesday as his Boston Celtics prepared to face the Cavaliers. That’s two nights before James comes back with the Miami Heat.
O’Neal said he and his teammates have bets that he won’t do it.
