NBA, Orlando Magic retire Shaq O’Neal’s jersey
After 34 withdrawn by the Lakers and 32 by the Heat, now it’s the Magic’s turn
"You know, there's an old saying: never forget where you come from. And my professional career è started here. I have lived in Orlando for most of my life. The fans have been hospitable. The people have been very, very hospitable. I never thought this day could happen". These were the words, reported by ESPN, of Shaq upon the retirement of his No. 32 jersey by the Orlando Magic.
Chosen by the Magic as the first overall pick in the 1992 Draft, O'Neal played four seasons in Orlando before moving to the LA Lakers. Four seasons in which he dominated. So much so that the franchise decided to retire his jersey. This is the first time in its 32-year history that the Magic have retired the jersey of one of their former players. After 34 retired by the Lakers, 32 by the Heat, third jersey retired for Shaq.
The party was attended by some of O'Neal's former teammates, including Hardaway, Scott and Anderson. "There's no one more deserving of being the first than Shaq. Shaq put the Orlando Magic on the map. And the foundation of his Hall of Fame career began right here in Orlando", said Magic CEO Martins. On Shaq's coronation night, the Magic lost to OKC (127-113).
