Shaq demands $50million from LA Lakers after making firm Kobe Bryant statement
Shaquille O'Neal wants a cheque for $50 million from the Los Angeles Lakers after making a comment that involves Kobe Bryant and Magic Johnson.
O'Neal enjoyed a legendary basketball career, winning an impressive four NBA championships.
He spent the majority of his Hall of Fame career in Los Angeles, winning three of his four NBA titles with the Lakers.
After Shaq departed, the Lakers continued their dominance, with Bryant inspiring his side to glory in back-to-back years between 2008 and 2010.
Advert
The Lakers have since been sold to TWG Global CEO Mark Walter in a deal worth a whopping $10 billion.
Once the transaction is finalised, it could increase.
Having delivered three NBA titles to the Lakers in the noughties, O'Neal wants a piece of the big pie.
In the latest episode of The Big Podcast with guest Bill Bellamy, O'Neal mentioned the Lakers' sale, saying: "The Lakers got sold for $10 billion... And I didn’t get nothing, dog."
Comedian Bellamy replied: "They gave you a 'thank you for your service', Shaquille."
O'Neal, who, of course, was joking, then name-dropped his former Lakers teammates Johnson and Bryant, asking for a cheque for $50 million.
"It was Magic [Johnson], me and Kobe [Bryant]. Can I get something? Can I get a cheque for like $50 million?” He said, in jest.
The 53-year-old isn't entitled to any money from the $10 billion sale as he was never a stakeholder.
Johnson, however, once held a stake in the Lakers but sold all of his shares in 2010.
O'Neal doesn't really need the cash considering he earned an estimated $286 million in NBA salaries throughout his 19-year career, having also played for the Boston Celtics and the Miami Heat, where he won an NBA championship.
He also earned more through endorsements, business ventures and media work.
Topics: Shaquille ONeal, NBA, Basketball
Nasir Jabbar