A major storm erupted when news about the Phoenix Suns owner echoed around. Found guilty of using racial slurs and even misogyny, Robert Sarver had to inevitably let the team go. Likewise, his actions brought forward the consequence of selling the coveted franchise. And a line of wealthy investors have lined up. However, there was a rumor about Shaquille O’Neal potentially joining the mix.

An NBA career worth $292 million hurled Big Diesel’s dominance around the globe. A nearly unstoppable force, Shaq has converted the same energy in his investments. The four-time champion has stakes in companies such as Google and a franchise empire. In fact, his net worth has grown to over $400 million. Hence, as the Suns went on sale, Shaq’s name came up as a potential buyer.

However, the competition might have scared even the once feared. With names such as Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk in the queue, Shaq felt it’s wise to retreat.

Shaquille O’Neal withdraws himself from the Phoenix Suns race

Shaq has held a dream to own an NBA team. Notably, he revealed his desire to take control of the Orlando Magic, the franchise that drafted him with the number one pick in 1992. With the Suns on the market, the three-time Finals MVP got the opportunity to fulfill his vision. That was until Shaquille O’Neal saw who he is running against. The mere name of Musk and Bezos made Shaq take a step back.

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Speaking about the chase for Suns’ ownership, Shaq said, “I was open until I saw the initials JB,” The Lakers legend added, “Let me tell you something, you don’t mess with James Brown, you don’t mess with Jeff Bezos. When the boys come on stage, get your a** and go. So, Jeff said he wants it and a couple of other heavy hitters said they want it. I’m not even gonna put my name in the bucket on this one.”

The biggest business owners have shown interest in owning the NBA franchise. The three favorites are Bob Iger, Jeff Bezos, and Elon Musk. The former Disney CEO is leading the odd makers among the three. However, it’s clear that some of the biggest names are joining the chase. And despite his goal to own an NBA team, Shaquille O’Neal is probably wise to withdraw in this scenario. Sarver’s single mistake has opened up the gates. As the competition intensifies, the NBA could have one of the biggest entrepreneurs join the family.

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Who do you think will ultimately emerge as the owner of the Phoenix Suns? Let us know your views in the comments below.