Peter Casey-USA TODAY Sports

NBA Facing Accusation After Shaquille O'Neal's Unexpected Comments

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated May 19, 2025 2:38 PM ET

Shaquille O’Neal, a four-time NBA champion and one of the league’s most dominant players, has long been celebrated for his on-court achievements. A 15-time All-Star and three-time Finals MVP, O’Neal's illustrious career includes stints with the Orlando Magic, Los Angeles Lakers, and Miami Heat, among others.

O’Neal's journey to NBA stardom began at Louisiana State University, where his exceptional play made him a top prospect. In the 1992 NBA Draft, the Orlando Magic selected him as the first overall pick, setting the stage for a transformative era for the franchise.

Recently, O’Neal appeared on Ashley Nevel's podcast and recounted a conversation with then-NBA Commissioner David Stern prior to the 1992 Draft.

According to O’Neal, Stern asked him, “You want to play where it’s cold or where it’s hot?” When O’Neal responded, “Hot,” Stern smiled. Shortly thereafter, the Orlando Magic secured the number one pick.

The timing of O’Neal's revelation coincides with renewed scrutiny of the NBA Draft Lottery's integrity. The Dallas Mavericks recently won the 2025 Draft Lottery despite having only a 1.8% chance, leading to widespread speculation.

Shaquille O’Neal on what former NBA commissioner David Stern told him before the 1992 NBA Draft

“‘You want to play where it’s cold or where it’s hot?’

I said hot… Orlando, Florida, number one [pick].”

(h/t @CourtsideBuzzX)

pic.twitter.com/iOumcNazi3
— Fullcourtpass (@Fullcourtpass) May 19, 2025

Critics suggest the league may have influenced the outcome to position the Mavericks to select top prospect Cooper Flagg, especially following the team's trade of Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers.

Fans reacted strongly to O’Neal's comments, expressing skepticism about the draft process:

"So the draft is rigged," a fan wrote.

"And they say NBA draft ain’t rigged? Lol," another fan mentioned.

"He’s basically confirming what we all know," another fan added.

"If it was rigged in 1992 it is definitely rigged now! #NBA just sending players to wherever the NBA can make the most money," a fourth fan posted.

"Did Shaq just expose the NBA?" one asked.

"We been knew this. The NBA is just an entertainment league," another fan remarked.

While the league has consistently denied allegations of manipulation, Shaq's comments coupled with recent events continues to fuel debate among fans and analysts.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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