Fansided

Shaq can now add esports general manager to his résumé

By Derek Helling

MIAMI, FL - MARCH 23: Shaquille O'neal and Steve Aoki on stage during Miami Music Week Miami 2018 - Dim Mak Miami at RC Cola Plant on March 23, 2018 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Jason Koerner/Getty Images)
MIAMI, FL - MARCH 23: Shaquille O'neal and Steve Aoki on stage during Miami Music Week Miami 2018 - Dim Mak Miami at RC Cola Plant on March 23, 2018 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Jason Koerner/Getty Images) /
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Kings Guard, the NBA 2k League franchise operated by the Sacramento Kings, has announced its hire of Shaquille O’Neal as the team’s general manager.

As the NBA 2k League’s inaugural draft is only two days away personnel from all 17 teams which will participate in the first season are busy making preparations. The Sacramento-based team, Kings Guard, seems to have “unlocked achievement badges” by announcing their hire for the role of general manager.

According to a press realease, Shaquille O’Neal, better known as Shaq to the public, will “provide valuable basketball counsel” to Kings Guard as its first GM.

“I’m looking forward to my role with Kings Guard,” Shaq is quoted to have said in the release. “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 already had some history with the NBA 2k brand, being the only player besides Michael Jordan to appear on the cover of the game’s standard edition in consecutive years (2006 and 2007). He donned the Los Angeles Lakers duds again on NBA 2k18’s premium Legend edition as well.

“We’re excited to have one of the biggest icons in basketball serve as a guiding voice for our first NBA 2K League team,” said Sacramento Kings CTO and head of esports Ryan Montoya. “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.”

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It remains to be seen which six draft-eligible gamers will join Shaq at Kings Guard on Wednesday, but those chosen should be excited to begin their NBA 2k League careers with a staff already so filled with celebrity power.