Shaquille O’Neal’s Special Night Turns Sour for Former Teammate
Follow Us
Shaquille O’Neal‘s jersey retirement was a cheerful night, except when he called upon one of his former teammates to the stage during his speech. The Orlando Magic brought in some of their famous stars and legends from the ’90s to honor the 4x NBA champion. One of them was Dennis Scott, whom Shaq called up to the podium to thank. Sadly, an unexpected reaction from the crowd was showcased.
Remember how they say one’s past can always haunt them later in their life? This might be a case of it. Shaq wanted to thank all his former teammates on this special night. As he called on these legends one by one, there was a sudden uproar of boos for Dennis Scott which has left many surprised. What could be the reason? Is it his sudden meltdown in the summer basketball camp, in front of a crowd full of kids?
This was one of the most controversial incidents of Dennis Scott’s life which happened back in 1997. Scott played seven seasons for the Magic organization. After his last season with the Magic, Scott was accused of using drugs which disturbed him quite a bit. He took the summer camp as an opportunity to vent about it, but it backfired.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
In an infamous video, Scott was seen screaming at the kids, denying autographs, and blasting loud music, which took a huge hit to his reputation. He also abruptly left the camp, though the kids and their parents were later refunded.
(1997) Dennis Scott tells children at his summer camp "do not ask me about autographs. Ask me to explain the rage that's inside of me." pic.twitter.com/OmRi53Daql
— NBA Trades (@nba_trades) July 10, 2018
There is a good reason why this could be the incident which triggered the boos from the crowd today, but we are unsure yet. It wasn’t a big deal for Big Diesel though as he turned the spotlight on his “best friend” for good reason.
Watch this story: “After LeBron James complains about HOF, Sue Bird has an answer for the King”
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
The boos get evened out by Shaquille O’Neal’s appreciation for Dennis Scott
While the negative effect from the crowd can be disturbing, at least Shaq was very kind towards his former teammate. The 2000 NBA MVP was the color commentator for the Magic today, ahead of his jersey night. Looking back to his rookie days, Shaq showed his gratitude towards Scott, who helped come out of a bitter start.
During his first month in Orlando, the LSU legend lived in a hotel at the airport with his family. He said that he got a bill for $960,000 for his 45-day stay at the hotel, because he didn’t know anything about houses. Scott was the one who introduced Shaq to a realtor, and also showed the way to be a professional. The 4x NBA champion showed his gratitude to the Magic icon more than once during the broadcast.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Trending
Shaquille O’Neal and Charles Barkley’s Absence From “Inside the NBA” Is Due to TNT’s Uncertain Future, as Per Reports
May 15, 2024 07:32 AM EDT
Countdown Starts for Charles Barkley and TNT Crew as Ernie Johnson Makes Heartfelt Confession Before Parting
May 16, 2024 06:00 AM EDT
Mother of 5, Dwyane Wade’s Wife Gabrielle Admits Changing Herself Due to 3 Things
May 13, 2024 12:30 PM EDT
Carmelo Anthony’s Ex-Wife La La Freaks Out in Shaquille O’Neal’s Presence After 30YO Admirer’s Call
May 16, 2024 02:39 AM EDT
Billionaire Michael Jordan Sports $600K Watch at Cincoro Event – Know More About the Billion-Dollar Brand Creation
May 16, 2024 12:00 PM EDT
Get instantly notified of the hottest NBA stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.
Follow Us
What are your thoughts on the above story? Share your take in the comments below.
Edited by:
Aakash Nair