Shaquille O’Neal is well known for his strong personality both as a player and now as a basketball analyst, with his bold and often controversial comments. But last night, during the Orlando Magic jersey retirement ceremony in his honor, he treated fans to a very different side of him.
O’Neal was drafted by the Orlando Magic with the first overall pick in the 1992 NBA draft and he made his mark by quickly becoming one of the best centers in the league, where he won the Rookie of the Year award in 1992–93 and led the Magics to the 1995 NBA Finals. This led the Magics to deem it fit to retire his jersey number 32 in an elaborate ceremony.
During his speech at the event, O’Neal took the initiative to shine the spotlight on a former teammate, whom he believed deserved this distinction already. Transitioning gracefully, the legendary center and big man called up the Magic’s first-ever draft pick, Nick Anderson, stating:
It’s a real honor to be the first Orlando Magic player to get their jersey retired, although I would’ve expected to be number two. You were the first superstar here in Orlando. I appreciate you for sacrificing for me. You could have (taken) the shot every time, but you threw it in (to low post). I definitely want to come back here when your jersey gets retired.
“It’s a real honor to be the first Orlando Magic player to get their jersey retired, although I would’ve expected to be number two… You were the first superstar here in Orlando.” 🤝
Shaq gives Nick Anderson his flowers during his jersey ceremony
(via @NBATV) pic.twitter.com/5LT4LCaxvQ
— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) February 14, 2024
Anderson appeared visibly moved by O’Neal’s kind words and the Kia Center’s warm applause. The duo was part of one of the greatest teams the city had the privilege of watching over the last few decades where they spent four years together.
Shaquille O’Neal Receives $53232.32 Honor at Jersey Retirement
As the Orlando Magic honored Shaquille O’Neal with a jersey retirement ceremony, speeches from commentators, owners, and former teammates filled the air. Amidst the festivities, the Shaq Foundation received a welcome surprise. Transitioning seamlessly, toward the end of the ceremony, the franchise made sure to send a check worth $532,32.32 to the charity.
Shaquille O’Neal (Via X/Orlando Magic)The number’s iconic status was unmistakable, impossible to overlook. The number 32 proudly hangs from the rafters of the Kia Center, it signifies a significant milestone for the Orlando Magic franchise. This moment allows them to pay tribute to the individual who, during a remarkable 5-year tenure, elevated both the city and the team within the sports community. Consequently, the figure on the check shone brightly: $532,32.32.
During his time with the Orlando Magic, he averaged 27.2 points, 12.5 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 2.8 blocks in 295 games played.
