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Shaquille O’Neal Slams Orlando Magic Manager Rumors

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No desk job for Shaquille O'Neal

Shaquille O’Neal, the future Hall of Fame center who started his illustrious career with the Orlando Magic, has been rumored to be interested in leaving his TNT studio analyst seat to serve as the Magic’s general manager.

Much time has been used by ESPN analysts and other pundits on whether O’Neal would be ideal for such a position. Quite frankly, O’Neal does not appear to be the behind-the-desk, negotiating-contracts, spinning-trades kind of guy.

But neither did Larry Bird, the Indiana Pacers’ general manager who was awarded the league’s top executive this season.

O’Neal made his intentions clear, finally, in a statement.

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

“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, Kenny and E.J.  I wish the best for the Magic and I am confident that they will select a great GM and coach.”

So, there. . .

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