Shaquille O’Neal’s Draft Day Story Adds More Fuel To Conspiracy Theories Suggesting NBA Lotteries Are Absolutely “Rigged”
Shaquille O’Neal (Image Credit: @AshleyNevel/YouTube)
The 2025 NBA draft lottery has reignited conversations among fans and analysts regarding the possibility of the league being “rigged.” This debate gained traction after the Dallas Mavericks, who entered the lottery with a mere 1.8% probability of winning the top pick, surprisingly emerged as the winners and claimed the coveted No. 1 overall selection. Recently, former NBA player Shaquille O’Neal has added more fuel to these conspiracy theories.
In a recent interview with Ashley Nevel, Shaquille O’Neal reminisced about his memorable draft day experience. He highlighted an intriguing moment when the then-NBA commissioner, David Stern, inquired about the kind of weather O’Neal wished to play in as he prepared to enter the professional league. O’Neal expressed his preference for warm weather. The Orlando Magic secured the top pick in the NBA Draft lottery shortly after their conversation.
“‘You want to play where it’s cold or where it’s hot?’ I said hot… Orlando, Florida, number one [pick],” O’Neal said.
O’Neal’s statement has led many to question the integrity of the lottery system, particularly given the high stakes involved. Such dramatic outcomes in the lottery often fuel speculation about whether the outcomes are truly random or influenced by external factors.
Shaquille O’Neal Shows Huge Respect For Michael Jordan
Shaquille O’Neal, Michael Jordan (Image Credits: Getty Images)
Basketball legend Michael Jordan is widely recognised as the greatest of all time (GOAT) in the NBA’s history. He is celebrated for his remarkable athleticism, skill, and profound impact on the game’s evolution and culture. However, it seems that some players from the newer generation have chosen to disregard the invaluable lessons and advice he has provided throughout his career. In a recent conversation with Ashley Nevel, O’Neal took a firm stance in defending Jordan against this unexpected criticism.
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“First of all, if anybody says Michael Jordan is hating, you’re an idiot. This man is the only man on Earth with G19 classification. Higher than the president of the United States … So if Jordan says, ‘I don’t think this guy is good,’ you’re not that f***** good,” O’Neal said.
O’Neal’s statement could spark conversations throughout the League. The excitement is palpable as supporters eagerly anticipate the myriad of reactions that will unfold.
