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Shaquille O’Neal, a towering figure both on and off the court, returned to where it all began on Tuesday night as the Orlando Magic honored him by retiring his No. 32 jersey. The ceremony, held at the Kia Center, marked a significant milestone for both O’Neal and the franchise, making him the first player to receive such an honor from the Magic.
The 51-year-old NBA legend, known for his dominant presence in the paint and his larger-than-life personality, expressed gratitude and disbelief at the recognition bestowed upon him by the team where he began his professional career.
“Never forget where you come from,” O’Neal remarked during the ceremony, acknowledging the significance of his roots in Orlando. Drafted by the Magic in 1992, O’Neal spent the first four years of his illustrious career with the team, leaving an indelible mark on the franchise and its fans.
Despite achieving numerous accolades throughout his career, including four NBA championships and multiple MVP awards, O’Neal admitted that the jersey retirement ceremony in Orlando held a special place in his heart.
“This will be the most impressive one,” O’Neal said. “To start here and to put in the work and to play four years and to be honored this way, this will probably be the most special one.”
The emotional ceremony was a testament to O’Neal’s impact not only as a basketball player but also as a beloved figure in the community. His contributions to the Magic extended beyond the court, leaving a lasting legacy that transcended basketball.
As O’Neal’s jersey ascended to the rafters alongside those of other NBA legends, the Magic paid tribute to a player who helped elevate the franchise to new heights during his tenure. The ceremony served as a reminder of O’Neal’s enduring legacy and his enduring connection to the city of Orlando.
In addition to O’Neal’s heartfelt remarks, the ceremony featured touching tributes from former teammates and colleagues, including Penny Hardaway, whose custom Shaq jacket garnered attention, and members of the “NBA on TNT” crew, who shared their congratulations and admiration for the big man.
As the night came to a close, O’Neal’s jersey retirement served as a celebration of a remarkable career and a reminder of the profound impact he had on the game of basketball. It was a moment of reflection and appreciation for a player who left an indelible mark on the sport and the city where it all began.