Shaquille O'Neal, NBA legend and arguably the most dominant player in league history, has been steadily making moves outside the basketball court.
As posted in the Kings Guard website, Shaq been named General Manager of Kings Guard Gaming. As GM, his role will be to provide counsel as the team assembles its roster and evaluates the available players in the upcoming draft.
“I’m looking forward to my role with Kings Guard,” said newly appointed Kings Guard GM Shaquille O’Neal. “Just like I dominated the hardwood, music industry, showbiz, nicknames and broadcasting, I plan to help build the most dominant 2K franchise in history.”
Shaq also spread the good news via Twitter:
Get ready NBA 2K League… I’m the new GM of @KingsGuardGG and we’re about to reign supreme! 👑 🎮 #Shaqramento pic.twitter.com/TZ1ipE5Xdn
— SHAQ (@SHAQ) April 2, 2018
For his part, Sacramento Kings CTO and Head of Esports Ryan Montoya shared the reason behind choosing Shaq as GM:
“We’re excited to have one of the biggest icons in basketball serve as a guiding voice for our first NBA 2K League team. Shaq’s global appeal combined with his knowledge and passion for the game will be invaluable as we work to build a team of elite gamers who are passionate and competitive team players.”
Shaq is just one among the number of ex-NBA players who are part of the e-sports community. His former teammate in the Los Angeles Lakers Rick Fox owns several e-sports teams. Former Boston Celtics forward Jonas Jerebko also bought a franchise last year.
Apart from them, many other basketball executives have invested in the e-sports gaming business. There seems to be a whole lot of potential there. We won't be surprised if more ex-NBA players and executives jump ship.
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