One of the most dominant and colorful big men in NBA history has decided to call it a career.
Shaquille O’Neal (39) announced Wednesday using the real-time video messaging service Tout that he will be retiring after 19 seasons in the NBA.
“We did it. Nineteen years baby. I want to thank you very much, that’s why I’m telling you first, I’m about to retire. Love you, talk to you soon.”
“Once a businesman, always a businessman,” O’Neal said with a smile later on Wednesday. “I am the emperor of the social media network.”
O’Neal, who was better known simply as Shaq, was drafted 1st overall in the 1992 NBA Draft by the Orlando Magic out of Louisiana State University. During his career Shaq played with 6 NBA teams (Orlando, Los Angeles Lakers, Miami, Phoenix, Cleveland, Boston) and is a four-time NBA Champion (Lakers in 2000, 2001, 2002 and Miami in 2006). He is a 3 time Finals MVP (2000, 2001, 2002) a 1 time NBA MVP (2000) and NBA Rookie of the Year in 1993.
Celtics spokesman Jeff Twiss says that O’Neal has not notified the team of his plans however Shaq did mention that a press conference will happen on Friday from his Isleworth home.
Source: ESPN.com
