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 O'Neal, or Shaq, is a celebrated American former professional basketball player and current sports analyst on Inside the NBA. Standing at 7-foot-1 and weighing 325 pounds, he dominated as a center for six NBA teams over his 19-year career. A four-time NBA champion, O'Neal is considered among the greatest basketball players and centers in the history of the sport.

Sections (7)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

1996: Named to NBA 50th Anniversary Team

In 1996, Shaquille O'Neal was honored as one of the league's greatest players of all time by being named to the NBA 50th Anniversary Team.

March 3, 2009: Matchup Against Dwight Howard

On March 3, 2009, in a game against the Orlando Magic, O'Neal was outscored by Dwight Howard. O'Neal also commented on flopping in the NBA.

2009: Inducted into the New Jersey Hall of Fame

In 2009, Shaquille O'Neal was inducted into the New Jersey Hall of Fame.

April 2, 2013: Lakers Retire Jersey

On April 2, 2013, the Los Angeles Lakers retired Shaquille O'Neal's No. 34 jersey.

February 26, 2016: Heat to Retire Jersey

On February 26, 2016, the Miami Heat announced they would retire Shaquille O'Neal's No. 32 jersey during the 2016-17 season.

December 22, 2016: Heat Retires Jersey

On December 22, 2016, the Miami Heat retired Shaquille O'Neal's No. 32 jersey during halftime of a game against his former team, the Los Angeles Lakers.

2016: Inducted into 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 the sport's greats.

2017: Elected to FIBA Hall of Fame

In 2017, Shaquille O'Neal was elected to the FIBA Hall of Fame, further recognizing his international contributions to basketball.

October 2021: Named to NBA 75th Anniversary Team

In October 2021, Shaquille O'Neal was again honored as one of the league's greatest players of all time by being named to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team.

2021: Admiration for Patrick Ewing

In 2021, Shaquille O'Neal revealed that his admiration for Patrick Ewing inspired him to wear the number 33.

2022: Ranked 8th Greatest Player

In 2022, Shaquille O'Neal was ranked as the 8th greatest player in NBA history by The Athletic, in commemoration of the NBA's 75th Anniversary.

February 13, 2024: Magic Retires Jersey

On February 13, 2024, the Orlando Magic retired Shaquille O'Neal's No. 32 jersey, marking the first time the team retired a players' number. With this honor, O'Neal became the third player to have his number retired by three NBA teams, alongside Wilt Chamberlain and Pete Maravich.