One of the most dominant figures in NBA history, Shaquille O'Neal, has his sights set on a new challenge. The former Lakers and Heat superstar is considering establishing an NBA franchise in Las Vegas. Initially, O'Neal had aspirations for sole ownership of the potential team, but he later showed willingness to collaborate with other NBA stars like LeBron James.
A Possible Collaboration with LeBron James
O'Neal and James share more than just their legendary status in the world of basketball. They were teammates at the Cleveland Cavaliers during the 2009-10 season, creating a bond that could potentially translate into a business partnership. Currently an active player for the Los Angeles Lakers, James has expressed support for bringing an NBA team to Las Vegas. His business acumen is well established, as evidenced by his two percent stake in the Liverpool Football Club.
O'Neal's Ownership Background
O'Neal is no stranger to the boardroom or the ownership side of sports franchises. From 2013 to 2022, he was a minority owner of the Sacramento Kings, gaining valuable experience in team management. O'Neal currently works as a broadcaster on TNT's Inside the NBA, providing insightful commentary based on his years of experience on the court.
In a recent statement, O'Neal said, "I would like to have my group. I know Vegas hasn't been awarded an NBA team yet, but if they ever get to a point where they are awarded a team, I would like to be a part of that. I don't want to partner up with nobody. I want it all for myself."
However, he later added, "If there's ever an NBA team that's going to come here, I would like to be involved, with LeBron, without LeBron, I just want to be involved."
Not a Baseball Fan
While O'Neal has shown interest in owning a basketball or even a football team, he has made it clear that baseball is not on his radar. "Not baseball. Football, maybe, basketball definitely, but not baseball," said O'Neal.
Following the Trend
The transition of former NBA players into team ownership is not a new trend. Michael Jordan, another legendary figure in the sport, was the principal owner and chairman of the Charlotte Hornets. Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors has also expressed interest in owning a team in the future. He said, "Absolutely. Understanding the business and how it's run. It fascinates you to understand where the future's headed. To know that you can be part of an ownership group that's ushering the NBA to its super prime, from viewership to basketball-related income coming in."
Despite these growing interests, no player currently holds majority ownership or governorship of an NBA franchise. Whether Shaquille O'Neal will change this remains to be seen. One thing is for sure though - his ambition and determination could well see him become a major player off the court as well as on it.