The impact is more than basketball. For no athlete does that statement hold more true than Shaquille O’Neal. Even though an all-time great and arguably the most dominant player in NBA history, his impact off the court is just as sensational. Thanks to his charitable ways, and people-pleasing personality, the big man has become a People’s Champion. 

So, on an iconic jersey retirement ceremony for the Orlando Magic, the team was more than happy to honor the charitable side of Shaq’s life as well. While the ceremony was underway, with speeches from commentators, owners, and former teammates, the Shaq Foundation was in for a welcome surprise. Toward the end, the franchise would make sure to send a cheque worth $53,232.32 to the charity.

The iconicness of the number was far too obvious to miss. With the number 32 deservingly hanging from the rafters of the Kia Center, it marks a momentous occasion for the Orlando Magic franchise. They get their chance to honor the individual, who in a 5-year run, put the city and the team on the sports landscape. As a result, the number on the cheque was brilliant: $53,232.32.

The team came together as an NBA franchise during the 1989 expansion. While the first few years were dire, the incoming Superman would alter the course of the entire franchise. Instantly a playoff contender, O’Neal would catapult them to the Finals in 1995, giving Michael Jordan his only playoff loss once he began winning titles.

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Further, Shaq’s run as Rookie of the Year, 4x All-Star, and elevation into the best players in the game discussion instantly elevated the stock of the team. Moreover, to this day, he still holds the record for the second-highest points-per-game average in Magic history. However, it wasn’t the only gift being presented to the 4x NBA champion on the evening.

Shaquille O’Neal bags iconic jacket in return to Orlando

The entire evening was meant to be a celebration of Diesel in his return to the city. With everyone speaking glowingly about their time together, albeit with some regrets, it was a joyous occasion all around. But, the jersey and the cheque weren’t the only items O’Neal was taking home with him.

Instead, the team would present him with a custom Orlando Magic jacket made by Jeff Hamilton. As the 7-footer ditched his coat jacket for the sports one, it was visible to all how much the moment meant to him.

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A historic night, alongside honoring his love for the people, it was a perfect encapsulation of the man they call Shaquille O’Neal.

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