Shaquille O’Neal enjoyed a stellar NBA career during his time in the league. With multiple championships and accolades under his belt, Shaq has gone down as probably the most dominant center in the league’s history. On top of that, after retiring from the NBA the Los Angeles Lakers legend went on to prove his acumen as a business-manager, having fronted some savvy ventures. The big man has now showed his willingness to make what would be the biggest jump in his career since his rebound-catching days.

Sitting with his usual friends on what is fittingly one of his most recognizable enterprises, The Big Podcast, O’Neal discussed a fortuitous piece of ‘industry news’ after his co-host Nischelle Turner informed the crew about Adam Silver’s probable exit as the NBA commissioner. In what could evidently be a promising turn-of-events for the Big man, Turner reported that Silver was in the race for the position of CEO at the Walt Disney Company. Turner directed the conversation at O’Neal, asking him if he would be interested in taking up the vacancy, to which the seven-footer immediately replied in affirmation.

Shaquille O’Neal is more than happy to take over the NBA

The NBA chief’s potential move was news to both Shaq and to Spice Adams, who completes the popular trio. As Nischelle Turner abruptly brought up the rumor, her co-hosts looked surprised. However, this did not prevent the baller-turned-businessman from pouncing on the opportunity and communicating his capacity to fill Silver’s shoes. As soon as Turner asked him about the prospect of stepping up to the big chair, Shaq responded in immediate agreement, “F**k it, I’ll take the job.”

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O’Neal’s lightning-fast reply was interesting since he initially brushed aside the news as inconclusive after recovering from his momentary surprise. As Spice Adams maintained a scratching-my-head expression after Turner shared that Disney was looking for a new CEO, O’Neal stated that he would not believe it until he heard something from Adam Silver himself.

Perhaps the legend was mulling some future returns that very moment?

The league under Adam Silver

Shaq’s reply about substituting for Adam Silver made his co-hosts laugh out loud. However, Shaq explained in the podcast, “I don’t think he would leave, he ain’t no goin’ to Disney. Because if he did, I don’t know who’s up next.” 

Adam Silver has been the commissioner of the NBA for about a decade now. He took over his predecessor David Stern in 2014, becoming the fifth occupier of the role.

The league has flourished under Silver. Its global reach has enhanced, and it has seen considerable growth economically, since Silver took over. Incidentally, a guest on boxing legend Mike Tyson’s podcast also discussed Adam Silver stepping down.

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Do you think Shaquille O’Neal, if he got the chance, would lead the NBA to greater heights? Share your thoughts in a comment below!