NBA legend Shaquille O'Neal has offered advice to LeBron James regarding his upcoming free agency decision, urging the superstar to prioritize joining a team where he can compete for a championship. O'Neal, who played for the Los Angeles Lakers from 1996 to 2004, emphasized the importance of seizing opportunities in the twilight of a career.
"Go where you can win, LeBron. When it’s over for us, it’s over," O’Neal, 54, told the California Post in a recent interview. "You never want to sit back and say, ‘I shoulda, I coulda, I woulda.’"
O’Neal suggested that James, who is set to enter his 24th NBA season, should consider teams such as the Cleveland Cavaliers, Golden State Warriors, Miami Heat, or Philadelphia 76ers.
James, 41, announced his departure from the Lakers in June after an eight-season tenure. During his time with the Lakers, he averaged 25.9 points, 7.9 assists, 7.7 rebounds, and 1.2 steals per game. He previously played for the Cavaliers (2003-2010, 2014-2018) and the Miami Heat (2010-2014).
Lakers owner Jeanie Buss acknowledged James' contributions in a statement following his announcement, calling him "one of the greatest athletes in history" and expressing gratitude for his eight years with the team, including the 2020 championship. She added that he would "always be a cherished part of the Lakers family."
James responded to the Lakers' statement on social media, expressing his gratitude and stating it was an honor to wear the team's colors and continue their legacy.
Since James' surprising decision, the sports world has been closely following his next move. While speculation has linked him to the Warriors, Heat, or Cavaliers, no official decision has been made.
According to reports, the majority of the NBA's free agency activity is on hold as teams and players await James' final decision. Insiders have described the league as being in a "holding pattern" until James determines where he will finish his career.
O'Neal's comments came as he was promoting his new true crime series, "Game Day Murders," which he executive produced for Today Investigation Discovery. He described himself as a "true crime junkie" and noted the series merges his interests in sports and true crime.
"Game Day Murders," hosted by Lindsay Czarniak, is set to premiere on July 27 at 10 p.m. ET on ID and will also be available for streaming on HBO Max.