Emmy Award-winning commentator Ahmad Rashad hosts and executive produces NBA Access with Ahmad Rashad, a new real-life drama television series that chronicles the lives of today’s larger-than-life NBA stars. The weekly 30-minute series, produced by NBA Entertainment, airs on Saturday afternoons (check local listings).

THE DOMINATOR

At 7'1" and 340 pounds, Shaquille O'Neal has established himself as one of the most dominant forces in league history. During his 13 NBA seasons, he's collected three championship rings, an MVP award, two scoring titles and an unbroken string of All Star selections. But the big man wants more. Last season, his team fell just short of reaching the NBA Finals. Now, Shaq is determined to to put the team on his back and bring a title to South Beach.

THE ROOKIE

The fourth overall pick in the 2005 NBA draft, Chris Paul was selected by the New Orleans/Oklahoma City Hornets to fill the team's void at point guard. So far, the six foot rookie has exceeded all expectations. He was immediately accepted as a leader of the Hornets, a steadying influence for a team fighting to survive in the tough Western conference while also dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Paul provides speed, toughness, unselfishness and a timely scoring touch - qualities that make him a front-runner for Rookie of the Year.

THE COACH

Last season, Mike D'Antoni turned the Phoenix Suns into an offensive juggernaut. Utilizing the open court skills of MVP Steve Nash and superstar Amare Stoudemire, D'Antoni led the Suns to the best record in the league. After a legendary playing career in Europe - in 1990, he was named the top point guard in Italian league history - D'Antoni has re-introduced the excitement of the fast break to the NBA. Now, his challenge is to keep his team among the league's elite despite losing Stoudemire for much of the season.

A TEAM ON THE RISE

Three years ago, the Denver Nuggets were a lottery team, completing another season of futility. Then, things began to turn around. After drafting Carmelo Anthony and adding veterans Marcus Camby, Kenyon Martin and Andre Miller, the Nuggets have made the playoffs the last two seasons, and began this season as a favorite to compete for a top seed in the West. Will the Nuggets live up to expectations? Head coach George Karl might have something to say about that. With 750-plus wins to his credit, Karl is hoping this talented Nuggets team can bring him the first NBA championship of his career.

THE BEAST OF THE EAST

Two seasons ago, the Detroit Pistons shocked the world by crushing the highly-favored Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA Finals. And last season, they fell one quarter short of repeating as NBA champion. Now, under new coach Flip Saunders, the Pistons are a force to be reckoned with. With a veteran lineup led by point guard Chauncey Billups, scorer Richard Hamilton and defensive star Ben Wallace, the team is stronger than ever. But even as they mow down the competition, this blue collar bunch still craves the attention given flashier and more high-profile teams in the league.

THE OWNERS

Joe and Gavin Maloof have been the owners of the Sacramento Kings since 1999. The young, jet-setting bachelors are always in search of a good time, without losing sight of their number one goal: achieving success in the family business. They've transformed the team from a Western Conference doormat to a perennial playoff contender. But now, after seven years, the Maloof brothers are hungry for a championship - and the Kings are struggling.

THE SCORER

Underestimated throughout his career, this second round draft pick in 2001 has become one of the most feared scorers in the game. Off the court, Gilbert Arenas is playful, superstitious and downright quirky. But when it comes to his game, his work ethic is unparalleled. His scoring average has increased in each of his five NBA seasons, and after leading the Washington Wizards to its first playoff series victory since 1982, Arenas is doing everything in his power to become a household name.

THE BUDDING STAR

Before the 2004 NBA draft, Dwight Howard of the Orlando Magic described himself as a mix of Kevin Garnett and Tim Duncan on the court and David Robinson off of it. After a very promising rookie campaign, the first overall pick wasn't too far off base. The 6'11" forward is one of the best rebounders in the league, and his scoring continues to develop. Humble, goal-driven and twenty-five pounds heavier than in his rookie campaign, Howard is looking to fulfill his promise as a future star in the NBA.

THE TEAM PLAYER

When Richard Jefferson was drafted by the New Jersey Nets in 2001, he joined a talented lineup led by All-Stars Jason Kidd and Kenyon Martin, on a team that reached the NBA Finals in consecutive years. Now, five seasons into his career, RJ still plays a complementary role to Kidd and Vince Carter. While he has the ability to be "the Man" - Jefferson can score, rebound and play tough defense - he has accepted his role as a vital cog in the Nets' wheel. The front office recognized his value, by signing him to a long-term deal. But does his supporting role cost him recognition with fans around the league?