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AUSTIN, TX – OCTOBER 14: Shaquille O’Neal Behind the Scenes of American Express Stage at Austin City Limits Festival on October 14, 2018 in Austin, Texas. (Photo by Rick Kern/Getty Images for American Express)
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AUSTIN, TX – OCTOBER 14: Shaquille O’Neal Behind the Scenes of American Express Stage at Austin City Limits Festival on October 14, 2018 in Austin, Texas. (Photo by Rick Kern/Getty Images for American Express)
The talks for an expansion in the NBA continue to gain traction. Whether it is Adam Silver or LeBron James, everyone at the top of the hierarchy is on board the idea. However, there are many questions that remain about such a move. While Conference expansions, scheduling, etc. are obvious concerns, the first hurdle is a choice of location. Due to the history of Vancouver and Seattle, those destinations serve as prime candidates. LeBron, himself, has spoken about his desire for a team in Las Vegas. That move could potentially even see King James?join hands with Shaquille O’Neal.
However, apart from these names, Shaq also has destinations of his own that could turn into viable possibilities. Among them, Mexico seems like the most likely. Moreover, O’Neal believes he has history and a rabid fanbase on his side.
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Shaquille O’Neal turns the NBA’s eyes to Mexico
Despite discussions stagnating, Mexico would certainly qualify as a perfect candidate for an expansion. The NBA already considers the region a primetime market, as evidenced by the annual tradition of hosting games in the country. Shaquille O’Neal wants to take it a step further.
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MCDONOUGH, GEORGIA – APRIL 07: Shaquille O’Neal speaks during the Pepsi Stronger Together and CTG Foundation Atlanta Law Enforcement Press Conference on April 07, 2021, in McDonough, Georgia. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for Pepsi Stronger Together)
So, the basis for a move is already in place. But, the Los Angeles Lakers legend believes it is more than just the annual trip. According to him, he’s seen the reason for the success of a possible NBA franchise in their neighboring country.
“When I played and studied in San Antonio I saw it. Mexicans love basketball, sports, they are passionate, and I think it is possible that Mexico is considered. The NBA is a great League and has fans from all over the world, and I think Mexico can do it, it can have a franchise,” the Hall of Famer said to Referee Sportainment.
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After his earlier wish for ownership in Vegas, even alongside LeBron James, this is the second time the Miami Heat legend has made his future plans clear.
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Shaq and LeBron to join hands again?
During the dying stages of his career, the Hall of Famer had a brief stint as the 4-time MVP’s teammate.
While it did not yield ideal results, it did develop mutual respect and love between the two. But, it seems like the two could be heading towards a reunion. This time as co-owners.
Both Laker greats serve as prime examples of successful careers outside of basketball. However, could joint ownership of an NBA franchise be a common future? Shaq certainly thinks so.
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With talks of expansion continuing to gain traction, is it an inevitability?
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