NBA legend Shaquille O'Neal has finally found a new heir.

The former Los Angles Lakers and Miami Heat superstar, often critical of today's big men, has been notoriously protective of his nicknames. But the "Superman" moniker, in particular, was untouchable.

Dwight Howard is still getting heat from the ex-center for trying to make it his. But Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis "The Greek Freak" Antetokounmpo has been bestowed the honor by Shaq himself, with the four-time champion lauding the youngster's effectiveness and style of play.

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The Big Diesel (because we can't call him Superman anymore) appeared on The Stephen A. Smith Show on Thursday and announced that he was giving up his name after watching Giannis absolutely dominate in the paint this season.

The Bucks star has been doing his work down low, unlike most of today's big men, who rely heavily on outside shooting.

"I've never given my name up before, but I'm giving it to him," Shaq said (h/t The Score). He's the new Superman. I didn't hit no 3-pointer either, but he's dominating and that's what I like. He's dominating in the paint. You taking it to the hole. You throwing it down. You ain't shooting no flip shots.

"And you know what? I don't want to encourage big guys to shoot jumpers and 3-pointers. Stay your big ass on the inside and dominate like you been doing. So I denounce myself as Superman and I'm giving to the 'Greek Freak.' You heard it here first."

What This Means

Giannis Antetokounmpo is destined for greatness. And that he's earned such respect from O'Neal, the most dominant big man in the history of the NBA, is monumental.

He might eventually disappoint Shaq by developing a three, given the direction the NBA is headed. But as things stand, he represents a refreshing reminder of basketball's traditional big man.

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