Shaquille O'Neal Achieves Historic Feat As Fourth NBA Player With Three Jersey Retirements

Photo: Instagram/Shaquille O'Neal 

Shaquille O'Neal achieves a historic milestone as he joins an elite group, becoming the fourth player in NBA history to see his jersey retired by three distinct franchises.

The iconic No. 32, worn by O'Neal, now hangs in the rafters of the Orlando Magic arena, adding to the honors bestowed by the Los Angeles Lakers and the Miami Heat.

O'Neal's unparalleled combination of size, strength, agility, and skill propelled the Lakers to three consecutive championships in the early 2000s, solidifying his status as one of the greatest in NBA history.

Photo: Instagram/Shaquille O'Neal 

Despite not always being in the Greatest of All Time (GOAT) conversation, O'Neal confidently places himself as the third-best center, following legends Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Bill Russell.

Having previously seen his jerseys retired by the Lakers and the Heat, O'Neal's recent induction by the Orlando Magic establishes him alongside basketball luminaries Pete Maravich, Wilt Chamberlain, and Bill Russell. Maravich's jerseys were retired by the Atlanta Hawks, New Orleans Pelicans, and Utah Jazz; Chamberlain by the Warriors, 76ers, and Lakers; and Russell by the Celtics and the entire league.

Orlando's fortune in drafting O'Neal as the first overall pick in 1992 paid off handsomely, with the dominant center leaving an indelible mark on the league. Known for his prowess in the post and ability to run the floor, O'Neal's impact transcended teams and cities.


While current NBA players like Joel Embiid and Nikola Jokic showcase a resurgence in post play, O'Neal's unique dominance through sheer force remains unparalleled. His legacy is not only defined by individual accolades but also by his instrumental role in leading the Lakers to a historic "three-peat" alongside the late Kobe Bryant.

As the Lakers prepare to unveil a statue commemorating Bryant, O'Neal expresses deep gratitude for the honor of playing alongside the basketball legend, acknowledging their dynamic partnership as the greatest one-two punch in NBA history. (SOURCE: Lakers Nation)

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