As the landscape of professional basketball continues to evolve, one familiar face is looking to make a significant impact off the court. NBA legend Shaquille O'Neal has expressed interest in establishing an NBA franchise in Las Vegas, a move that could potentially reshape the city's sports scene.
O'Neal Eyes Ownership
In his initial statements, O'Neal revealed his desire for sole ownership of the potential team. "I would like to have my group," said O'Neal. "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."
This isn't the first time O'Neal has held an ownership stake in an NBA team. He served as a minority owner of the Sacramento Kings from 2013 to 2022. Now working as a broadcaster on TNT's Inside the NBA, he's ready to dive back into the ownership game. However, he made it clear that baseball is not on his radar. "Not baseball. Football, maybe, basketball definitely, but not baseball," stated O'Neal.
Potential Collaboration with LeBron James
Despite his initial preference for sole ownership, O'Neal later showed willingness to collaborate with other NBA stars, particularly LeBron James. "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," said O'Neal.
O'Neal and James share a history on the court, having been teammates at the Cleveland Cavaliers during the 2009-10 season. James, who currently plays for the Los Angeles Lakers, also supports the idea of bringing an NBA team to Las Vegas. Additionally, James has experience in sports ownership with a two percent stake in the Liverpool Football Club.
A Growing Trend Among Former Players
The transition from player to owner is not a new trend in the NBA. Michael Jordan, another legendary figure in the sport, served as the principal owner and chairman of the Charlotte Hornets. However, no player currently holds majority ownership or governorship of an NBA franchise.
Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors has also expressed interest in owning a team in the future. "Absolutely. Understanding the business and how it's run," said Curry. "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."
As these former and current players look towards ownership, they bring with them a unique perspective on the game and a deep understanding of the league. This trend could potentially shape the future of the NBA, influencing decisions made both on and off the court.