As the world of professional sports continues to evolve, a new trend has emerged - former players transitioning into team ownership. This trend is not entirely novel, with notable examples like Michael Jordan, who became the principal owner and chairman of the Charlotte Hornets. Now, it seems another NBA legend, Shaquille O'Neal, is considering following suit.
O'Neal's Ambitions for Las Vegas
Shaquille O'Neal, known for his illustrious career in the NBA, is reportedly contemplating establishing an NBA franchise in Las Vegas. "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."
Initially, O'Neal expressed a desire for sole ownership of the potential team, stating, "I don't want to partner up with nobody. I want it all for myself." However, he later showed willingness to collaborate with other NBA stars, specifically LeBron James, with whom he was teammates at the Cleveland Cavaliers during the 2009-10 season.
LeBron James: A Potential Partner?
LeBron James, currently an active player for the Los Angeles Lakers, also supports the idea of bringing an NBA team to Las Vegas. "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, indicating his openness to partnering with James.
James himself has dipped his toes into the world of sports ownership, owning a two percent stake in the Liverpool Football Club. His involvement could bring additional credibility and resources to the potential Las Vegas franchise.
O'Neal's Previous Ownership Experience
O'Neal is not a newcomer to the world of sports ownership. He was a minority owner of the Sacramento Kings from 2013 to 2022, and currently works as a broadcaster on TNT's Inside the NBA. His past experience and current engagement with the sport could be beneficial in his new venture.
However, don't expect O'Neal to expand his ownership interests to baseball. "Not baseball. Football, maybe, basketball definitely, but not baseball," said O'Neal, making clear his preferences.
The Future of Player Ownership
No player currently holds majority ownership or governorship of an NBA franchise, but the landscape may be changing. Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors has expressed interest in owning a team in the future. "It fascinates you to understand where the future's headed," said Curry. "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."
With former players like O'Neal and Curry expressing interest in team ownership, we may soon see a shift in the power dynamics of the NBA. As these athletes transition from the court to the boardroom, they bring with them a unique perspective that could shape the future of the league.