In a groundbreaking move, Basketball Hall of Famer Shaquille O’Neal has agreed to become the general manager of Sacramento State’s men’s basketball program. The position is voluntary and unpaid, reflecting O’Neal’s commitment to the development of the team and his personal connection to the university through his son, Shaqir O’Neal, who recently transferred to Sacramento State.
A New Era for Sacramento State Basketball
O’Neal’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for the Hornets, who are seeking to rejuvenate their basketball program after a challenging 7-25 season. The university has also brought in former NBA star Mike Bibby as head coach, marking his first foray into collegiate coaching. The duo aims to leverage their extensive NBA experience to elevate the team’s performance in the Big Sky Conference.
O’Neal’s Role and Vision
As general manager, O’Neal is expected to play a strategic role in shaping the team’s future, focusing on areas such as player development, recruitment, and navigating the evolving landscape of college athletics, including Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) policies and the transfer portal. His involvement is anticipated to bring a new level of professionalism and insight to the program. (Reports: Shaquille O’Neal set to be Sac State’s basketball GM)
Personal Ties to Sacramento State
O’Neal’s decision is deeply personal, as his son, Shaqir O’Neal, has joined the Hornets after transferring from Florida A&M. This move allows the elder O’Neal to closely support his son’s collegiate basketball journey while contributing to the team’s overall success.
A Trend Among Former Athletes
O’Neal’s new role aligns with a growing trend of former professional athletes taking on leadership positions in college sports. Notably, NBA stars Stephen Curry and Trae Young have accepted assistant general manager roles at their respective alma maters, Davidson and Oklahoma. This shift reflects a broader movement towards integrating professional experience into collegiate athletics.
With the combined leadership of Shaquille O’Neal and Mike Bibby, Sacramento State’s men’s basketball program is poised for a transformative period. The university is also set to open a new basketball facility on campus this fall, further signaling its commitment to athletic excellence.
As the Hornets prepare for the upcoming season, the integration of NBA-caliber expertise into their coaching and management staff offers a promising outlook for the team’s future in collegiate basketball.
