Here we show you the highlights of Shaquille O’Neal’s career
Shaquille O’Neal, also known as Shaq, is considered one of the greatest players in the history of the sport. He was born on March 6, 1972 in Newark, New Jersey. Throughout his career, Shaq played for six different teams:
- Orlando Magic
- Los Angeles Lakers
- Miami Heat
- Phoenix Suns
- Cleveland Cavaliers
- Boston Celtics
Shaq first gained national attention as a high school basketball player in San Antonio, Texas. He was a dominant force on the court, using his size and strength to overpower his opponents.
After high school, Shaq attended Louisiana State University where he continued to impress as a college basketball player. In 1992, he was selected first overall in the NBA draft by the Orlando Magic.
Early Career
In his first season with the Magic, Shaq made an immediate impact and was named the Rookie of the Year. He was also selected to the All-Star team and helped lead the Magic to the playoffs for the first time in franchise history.
Over the next few seasons, Shaq continued to improve, becoming one of the most dominant players in the league. He led the Magic to the NBA Finals in 1995, but they were defeated by the Houston Rockets.
In 1996, Shaq signed as a free agent with the Los Angeles Lakers. There he teamed up with future Hall of Fame guard Kobe Bryant. Together, Shaq and Kobe formed one of the most dominant duos in the history of the league.
Mid Career
Shaw, along with Kobe, lead the Lakers to three consecutive championships from 2000 to 2002. During this time, Shaq was named the Finals MVP each year.
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After his success with the Lakers, Shaq signed as a free agent with the Miami Heat in 2004. He continued to play at a high level, leading the Heat to their first-ever championship in 2006.
He was named the Finals MVP for the fourth time in his career. Shaq played for the Heat for three seasons before being traded to the Phoenix Suns in 2008.
Late Career
In Phoenix, Shaq continued to play at a high level, but his role was more limited as he was getting older and dealing with injuries. After two seasons with the Suns, he signed as a free agent with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
He played for one season with Cavaliers before being traded to the Boston Celtics in 2010. Shaq played a limited role for the Celtics, coming off the bench and playing a supporting role as the team made it to the Eastern Conference Finals.
Awards & Achievements
After the 2010-11 season, Shaq announced his retirement from the NBA. Over the course of his career, he achieved a number of milestones:
- All-Star x15
- NBA Champion x4
- Finals MVP x3
- All-NBA First Team x8
- All-Defensive Second Team X3
Shaq is widely considered one of the most dominant big men in the history of the sport.
Personal Life
Off the court, Shaq is known for his larger-than-life personality and his many interests and pursuits outside of basketball. He has been a television analyst, rapper, actor, and businessman.
He is also known for his philanthropy, having donated millions of dollars to various charitable causes over the years.
