Shaquille O'Neal and LeBron James: A Potential NBA Franchise in Las Vegas?

In a surprising turn of events, NBA legend Shaquille O'Neal has expressed interest in establishing an NBA franchise in Las Vegas. Initially indicating a desire for sole ownership, O'Neal later showed willingness to collaborate with other NBA stars, including LeBron James.

O'Neal's Ownership Ambitions

O'Neal, who currently works as a broadcaster on TNT's Inside the NBA, stated, "I would like to have my group. I know Vegas hasn't been awarded an NBA team yet, but if they ever get to a point where they are awarded a team, I would like to be a part of that. I don't want to partner up with nobody. I want it all for myself."

Despite his initial wish for sole ownership, he later opened up to the possibility of collaboration, saying, "If there's ever an NBA team that's going to come here, I would like to be involved, with LeBron, without LeBron, I just want to be involved." He also clarified his preference for sports franchises, stating, "Not baseball. Football, maybe, basketball definitely, but not baseball."

Teaming Up with Former Teammates?

Interestingly, O'Neal and James were teammates at the Cleveland Cavaliers during the 2009-10 season. James, an active player for the Los Angeles Lakers, supports bringing an NBA team to Las Vegas. He also holds a two percent stake in the Liverpool Football Club. Could this former teammate duo join forces in the boardroom as well?

O'Neal's Previous Ownership Experience

O'Neal is no stranger to team ownership. He was a minority owner of the Sacramento Kings from 2013 to 2022. His experience in team ownership and his current broadcasting role give him unique insights into the workings of the NBA.

He expressed his interest in being more than just a figurehead, saying, "I want to be involved. There are two types of owners. There's the owner that just has the bragging rights, and I'm the partial owner, and there's guys that like to make decisions. I, at some point, would like to be in on the decision-making process."

Continuing the Trend of Player Ownership

The transition from player to team owner is not a new trend in the NBA. Michael Jordan, another NBA legend, was the principal owner and chairman of the Charlotte Hornets. However, as of now, no player holds majority ownership or governorship of an NBA franchise.

Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors has also expressed interest in owning a team in the future, stating, "Absolutely. Understanding the business and how it's run... It fascinates you to understand where the future's headed. To know that you can be part of an ownership group that's ushering the NBA to its super prime, from viewership to basketball-related income coming in."

In conclusion, the potential arrival of an NBA team in Las Vegas could see a collaboration of former teammates Shaquille O'Neal and LeBron James in a new capacity - as team owners. This continues the trend of former NBA players transitioning into team ownership, potentially paving the way for others to follow.