Shaquille O’Neil Turns Down Orlando Magic Interview For General Manager Job

Earlier today I reported that Shaquille O’Neal was being considered for the general manager for the Orlando Magic, a role that Shaq has now said he will not pursue after turning down an invitation to interview with the team.

In a public statement made on Thursday night O’Neal wrote:

“When I first heard about the vacancy for the Orlando Magic general manager position, I was clearly intrigued.”

Shaq then added:

“I was drafted by the Magic, I have a great love for the franchise, and I have made the city of Orlando my home. Additionally, I have great admiration and respect for the DeVos family.

Before concluding:

“However, this is not a job I have an interest in pursuing. I feel very fortunate to be with TNT and to have the best job in sports. I look forward to many more years with Charles (Barkley), Kenny (Smith) and E.J. (Ernie Johnson). I wish the best for the Magic and I am confident that they will select a great GM and coach.”

The main consideration for the Orlando Magic was believed to be O’Neil’s chances at keeping Dwight Howard on the team.

In the meantime Shaq will continue with his job as an analysts for TNT.

Shaquille O’Neil was drafted and then played for the Orlando Magic from 1992 through the 1996 season, in 1995 he took the club to the NBA Finals before leaving for the Los Angeles Lakers in 1996.

Do you think Shaq would make a good general manager for the Orlando Magic?