NCAA Reacts to Major Shaquille O'Neal Announcement

With the college basketball season now behind us and the transfer portal closing for the first time this offseason, attention has already turned toward the 2026 campaign.

Programs across the country—particularly at the Division I level—are being forced to adapt to the sport’s rapidly evolving landscape, especially with the growing influence of NIL deals, transfer portal movement, and the financial complexities tied to both.

In response, many schools have begun hiring general managers to handle roster management and off-court operations. The latest program to embrace this model is Sacramento State, led by NBA legend Mike Bibby.

The Hornets made headlines with their choice, bringing in NBA Hall of Famer and former college standout Shaquille O’Neal as the program’s general manager. O’Neal will take on the role in an unpaid, voluntary capacity—a move that comes as his son, Shaqir O’Neal, prepares to join the Sacramento State roster this upcoming season.

The NCAA quickly acknowledged the headline-grabbing hire, posting on social media:

"Shaquille O’Neal Sacramento State," NCAA posted. "The Hornets announced Shaq will serve as General Manager for the program."