Shaquille O’Neal recently shared his disapproval of league-wide jersey retirements on “The Big Podcast.” Having had his own No. 32 jersey retired by the Miami Heat in 2016, O’Neal expressed his disdain for the Heat retiring Michael Jordan’s No. 23 and Bill Russell’s No. 6, highlighting that neither legend ever played for the Heat.
“I hate the fact that they hang up other people’s jerseys,” O’Neal stated. “This thing is ours. Michael Jordan ain’t never played for the Heat. Bill Russell ain’t never played for the Heat. This Miami thing? I was part of the original championship families. This is our thing. So I don’t like that personally.”
The Heat, along with the Bulls, are the only teams displaying Jordan’s No. 23 in their rafters. Russell’s No. 6 was retired league-wide following his demise in 2022.
Shaq doesn’t agree with the Heat retiring MJ’s and Bill Russell’s number
“Michael Jordan ain’t never played for the Heat. Bill Russell ain’t never played for the Heat.”
(🎥 @bigpodwithshaq / https://t.co/Fq8UjW2LsB) pic.twitter.com/XUpbap8YZ7
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) December 29, 2023
O’Neal’s Stance on Exclusive Recognition
O’Neal’s sentiment revolves around the idea of territorial pride. Having devoted his all to the Heat organization and its fans, he believes that the recognition should be exclusive to those who contributed directly.
Taking a broader perspective, the article questions the widespread practice of jersey retirements. It echoes O’Neal’s view that Jordan’s jersey, for instance, need not grace the rafters of any city except Chicago. The writer advocates for the reserved celebration of team-specific jerseys, honoring outstanding players within the organization. However, unless in extraordinary circumstances, such as Jordan, Kobe Bryant, or Bill Russell, the article deems the permanent retirement of jersey numbers as excessive.
Emphasizing the importance of preserving the uniqueness and exclusivity of team achievements and individual contributions to specific franchises.
