Shaquille O'Neal Expresses Interest In Las Vegas NBA Team, Open To Collaboration With LeBron James

Photo: Instagram/Shaquille O'Neal

In a recent development, basketball legend Shaquille O'Neal has signaled his desire to be involved with a potential NBA team in Las Vegas, initially expressing a solo ownership ambition.

However, in a more recent statement, O'Neal expressed openness to collaboration, stating, "With LeBron, without LeBron, I just want to be involved."

O'Neal's interest in Las Vegas basketball ownership aligns with LeBron James' longstanding connection to the city's rumored expansion team. While LeBron had previously hinted at a partnership with the Fenway Sports Group, O'Neal now emphasizes his preference for independent ownership.

Photo: Instagram/Shaquille O'Neal

The former teammates, who shared the court with the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2009-10 season, have different paths post-retirement. O'Neal served as a minority owner of the Sacramento Kings from 2013 to 2022 and currently works as a broadcaster on TNT's Inside the NBA.

Meanwhile, LeBron remains an active player for the Los Angeles Lakers. The dynamics of ownership control in any potential team involve considerations of front office power.

O'Neal, during his tenure as a minority owner, did not exercise front office influence, while LeBron might aspire for a more hands-on role. As the NBA focuses on finalizing a new national media rights deal, expansion discussions are expected to gain traction.

Las Vegas, alongside Seattle, emerges as a prime candidate for a new team. While both O'Neal and James express interest in ownership, it remains uncertain who will ultimately wield control over these prospective teams.

For now, the NBA landscape awaits the resolution of media rights negotiations, leaving fans and enthusiasts curious about the potential collaboration between these two basketball icons in shaping the future of Las Vegas NBA ownership.

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Source: CBS Sports

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