Shaquille O’Neal isn’t giving up: the giant is back in the race to own an NBA team

Shaquille O’Neal has always dreamed of owning an NBA team, and now he seems more determined than ever.

After his time with the Sacramento Kings and his experience in other businesses, the giant is ready to take a new leap and is considering two iconic destinations: the Miami Heat and the Orlando Magic, franchises where he left his mark as a player.

A second chance for Shaquille O’Neal pending dream

Shaquille O’Neal recently appeared on the Dan Patrick show and didn’t hesitate to express his desire. “In an ideal world, I would love to be part of the Orlando Magic or the Miami Heat. Just as a limited partner. I’d love to have that conversation.”

The legendary former Lakers player emphasized that he’s not looking to be the majority owner; his interest lies in investing and participating strategically, bringing experience and passion without taking full control.

This approach reflects a different perspective compared to his previous stint with the Kings. Shaq has already experienced what it means to have a stake in an NBA team, and this time he wants to do it with the mindset of an active but not absolute partner.

Shaquille O’Neal on NBA ownership:

“In a perfect world, I would love to be part of the Orlando Magic or the Miami Heat, in a perfect world….just as a limited partner. I would love to have that conversation.”

(via DanPatrickShow) pic.twitter.com/4AyuCSWahV

— Heat Diehards (@HeatDiehards) December 13, 2025

His track record shows he understands the value of being involved without having total command—a lesson learned after selling his shares in Sacramento in 2021.

Lessons from the past and future ambitions

Shaquille O’Neal experience with the Kings wasn’t easy. In 2013, he acquired a minority stake in the franchise and was excited about his role as an owner.

However, the need to focus resources on other ventures, like WynnBET, forced him to sell his shares.

“It was very tough. Actually, heartbreaking. I tried to find loopholes, but I couldn’t. I’ve always been someone who follows the rules,” Shaq admitted at the time.

Today, Shaquille O’Neal is looking to return to the NBA with greater strategy and caution. This time, it’s not just about investing money—it’s about choosing the right franchise, whether the one that drafted him or the one where he won a championship.

His name remains synonymous with greatness both on and off the court, and his ambition to become an owner again could rewrite his legacy in the league.