“I don’t believe in pressure,” said Shaquille O’Neal once. We can say, he really meant it when he chose one of the beautiful beach countries as his escapade. The 4x NBA champion’s influence extends beyond the basketball court. Shaq who is known for his larger-than-life personality and entrepreneurial spirit, has always sought out unique experiences and exotic destinations. But this time, the seven-footer shocked everyone when he regarded another place as his idyll.

In a recent video posted on Instagram by “NBA Arabic,” the famous Australian-Lebanese singer Kris Fade asked ‘Big Diesel’ what his thoughts were on the local cuisines of Abu Dhabi, and the Los Angeles Lakers icon was quick to answer it. “So I’m usually a creature of habit, you know. I eat what I eat. But I tasted all the old cuisines and it was quite fabulous. People there are so nice, the malls, like it is what we call in the States, ‘Paradise’,” said Shaq in the video. 

The Bahamas had always been the all-time favorite for Shaq. He had always visited the place, sometimes by himself or with his kids, to relieve stress and has regarded it as the best destination since he loves beaches and sand. Regarding Abu Dhabi as his new paradise is a big revelation for his fans. But what is he doing in Abu Dhabi? The answer is quite exciting. The NBA Abu Dhabi organization is setting up the third consecutive installment of the NBA Abu Dhabi Games.

The NBA district in Manarat Al Saadiyat is set to feature an amazing display of basketball activities from October 3 to October 6, 2024. This most exciting event will be the game between the two teams, which are the Boston Celtics and the Denver Nuggets. It will take place on October 4 and 6 at the Etihad Arena. The event will also include an NBA Fan Appreciation Day, where many basketball stars like Shaquille O’Neal will be in attendance. “Two great teams, too great players. All the fans in Abu Dhabi will have a great time. When we got two top teams like that, it’s gonna be a great night,” said Shaq in the video.

While the Bahamas might still hold a special place in Shaq’s heart, his recent declaration of Abu Dhabi highlights the All-Star’s willingness to embrace new experiences and explore different horizons. And as he packs up to fly to the UAE, did you know the origins of the NBA in Abu Dhabi event?

NBA in Abu Dhabi: A sneak peek into the history

The NBA’s first game in Abu Dhabi marked a historic milestone for the sport. The first-ever event which took place in 2022 showcased the league’s commitment to bring the games to the new market and also to the new fans. The event took place from October 5 to October 9, 2022. The main games were played between the Atlanta Hawks and the Milwaukee Bucks, which were accompanied by various performances from the Milwaukee Bucks Dunk Team and the Atlanta Hawks Dance Team. Other performances included live music shows by the artist Mr. Dripping.

The next event took place from October 5th to 7th, 2023. This was the first time that the NBA Fans Appreciation Day was introduced. The main game was between the Dallas Mavericks and the Minnesota Timberwolves, which featured NBA veterans like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Kenny Smith.

On Fan Appreciation Day, the fans were able to meet players like Tim Hardaway Sr. and Gary Payton. With the success of these two events, the fans can expect this year’s event to be an equally amazing one. As for Shaq, he had a message for the lovely people of Abu Dhabi and UAE: “I love you and I will see you soon.”

Stay tuned for more such updates and join us for the exciting second episode of the “Dual Threat Show” as our host BG12 sits down with Georgia Bulldogs star and Mountain West All-Freshman Team Selection, Asia Avinger