Lasting Legacy of Shaquille O'Neal: A Look at the Influence on History
A closer look at the lasting mark left by Shaquille O'Neal—a timeline of influence.
Shaquille Rashaun O'Neal, or Shaq, is a retired American professional basketball player and current sports analyst. Standing at 7-foot-1-inch and weighing 325 pounds, he played center for six NBA teams over his 19-year career. O'Neal is a four-time NBA champion widely considered one of the greatest basketball players and centers in history.
2000: Jackson Challenges O'Neal
In 1999, prior to the 1999-2000 season, the Lakers hired Phil Jackson, who immediately challenged O'Neal to be worthy of having the NBA MVP trophy named after him.
2000: B.A. Degree from LSU
In 2000, Shaquille O'Neal earned his B.A. degree in general studies from LSU, fulfilling a promise to his mother.
2006: Shaquille O'Neal's Opinion on Flopping
In a 2006 interview with TIME, O'Neal stated his disapproval of flopping, expressing that players should win by skill rather than faking fouls and trying to get calls from the referees.
April 2, 2013: Lakers Retired Jersey
On April 2, 2013, the Los Angeles Lakers retired O'Neal's No. 34 jersey.
February 26, 2016: Miami Heat to Retire Jersey
On February 26, 2016, the Miami Heat announced that they would retire O'Neal's No. 32 jersey.
December 22, 2016: Miami Heat Retired Jersey
On December 22, 2016, the Miami Heat retired O'Neal's No. 32 jersey during halftime of a game against the Los Angeles Lakers.
2016: Elected into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
In 2016, Shaquille O'Neal was elected into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, solidifying his legacy as one of basketball's greats.
2017: Elected to FIBA Hall of Fame
In 2017, Shaquille O'Neal was elected into the FIBA Hall of Fame, further recognizing his global impact on basketball.
October 2021: Named to NBA 75th Anniversary Team
In October 2021, Shaquille O'Neal was honored again as one of the league's greatest players of all time by being named to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team.
2022: Among the Five Wealthiest NBA Players
As of 2022, Shaquille O'Neal is among the five wealthiest NBA players, with a net worth of $400 million, with diverse investments.
2022: Ranked 8th Greatest Player by The Athletic
In 2022, The Athletic ranked O'Neal as the 8th greatest player in NBA history to commemorate the NBA's 75th Anniversary.
December 13, 2023: Giannis Antetokounmpo scores 64 points
On December 13, 2023, Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 64 points against the Indiana Pacers. This was the first time a player scored 60 or more points without hitting a 3-pointer since Shaquille O'Neal did it on March 6, 2000.
February 13, 2024: Orlando Magic Retired Jersey
On February 13, 2024, the Orlando Magic retired O'Neal's No. 32 jersey, marking the first time they retired a player's number.
