Shaquille O’Neal, one of the most iconic players in Orlando Magic history, is set to receive a prestigious honor as the franchise plans to retire his famous No. 32 jersey. The ceremony is scheduled to take place after the Magic’s game against Oklahoma City on February 13, during the team’s 35th-anniversary season.
O’Neal, who played an instrumental role during his four-year stint with the Magic from 1992-1996, will become the first player in the franchise’s history to have his jersey number retired. The announcement was made in a surprise message from Magic CEO Alex Martin while O’Neal was working as an analyst for TNT Sports.
Martin expressed the team’s gratitude for O’Neal’s outstanding contributions, acknowledging the unforgettable moments he brought to Orlando, including leading the Magic to the NBA Finals in 2005. O’Neal, selected as the first overall pick in the 1992 NBA Draft by the Magic, played 295 regular-season games, making significant impacts in various statistical categories.
During his time with the Magic, O’Neal averaged an impressive 27.2 points, 12.5 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 2.79 blocks per game. He remains among the franchise’s all-time leaders in key areas such as blocked shots, rebounds, free throws made, field goals made, and points scored. His 27.2 points per game average ranks as the second-highest in Orlando’s history.
O’Neal’s tenure with the Magic saw him named an NBA All-Star four times, earning All-NBA Second Team honors in the 1994-95 season. He also received recognition as the NBA’s Rookie of the Year in 1992-93, securing a spot on the NBA All-Rookie First Team.
Magic Chairman Dan DeVos emphasized O’Neal’s transformative impact on the team and the city, stating that O’Neal’s dominating play, larger-than-life personality, and generous contributions left an enduring legacy in Orlando. The jersey retirement ceremony is expected to be a momentous occasion, celebrating Shaquille O’Neal’s remarkable career and lasting impact on the Orlando Magic franchise.