On Tuesday night, the Orlando Magic retired Shaquille O’Neal’s No. 32 jersey, making the first time in the organization’s history. The move is part of Magic’s 35th anniversary celebrations.
It stated on Twitter, with an old video of him being drafted and the caption, “#32 is the first player in Magic history to have his number retired.” “Thank you, @SHAQ.”
Shaq reminded the audience to remember their roots, as reported by NBC Sports. And my professional career began here. I’ve lived here for the majority of my life. The supporters have been welcoming. The people have been quite welcoming. “I never thought this day would come.”
According to the article, the Orlando Magic, who had a 70-176 record, seemed to be an expansion club throughout their first three seasons of play.
In 1992, the Magic won the NBA Draft Lottery and selected Shaq from LSU with the first choice. Everything changed after that. Shaq led the Magic to a.500 record as a rookie, partnering with sharpshooters Nick Anderson and Dennis Scott. Shaq and Penny Hardaway led the Magic to the NBA Finals by his third season.
Shaq was Orlando’s first in many ways, according to AP News. First overall draft pick. First rookie of the year. The Magic’s first All-Star selection. First All-NBA selection. And the first well-known star to leave the franchise.
Shaq averaged 27.2 points, 12.5 rebounds, and 2.8 blocks in 295 games and shot 58.1 percent from the floor during his four years in Orlando, according to DailyMail.