[Saba Sports News] Shaquille O’Neal, previously adamant about solo ownership of a potential NBA team in Las Vegas, has shifted his stance, now open to partnering with LeBron James. O’Neal, expressing a strong interest in being involved in any Las Vegas NBA expansion, initially wanted exclusive ownership. However, the possibility of James, who has been vocal about owning a Las Vegas team, getting the franchise may have influenced O’Neal’s change in approach.
LeBron James, with a significant net worth and partnership in Fenway Sports Group, has been eyeing team ownership in Las Vegas for over a year, even reaching out to NBA Commissioner Adam Silver. While O’Neal’s readiness to partner is clear, James’ stance on such a collaboration remains uncertain, especially given his and O’Neal’s influence and financial standing.
The NBA, however, is not prioritizing expansion at the moment, focusing instead on media deals set to expire in two years.
Expansion talks are expected to follow, but the process is complex and might take additional time. The league’s Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum acknowledges the talent availability for new teams but emphasizes the media deals’ precedence.
If James were to become a majority owner, it would be a significant milestone, following in the footsteps of Michael Jordan’s transition from player to owner. This development, though still speculative, presents an intriguing prospect for the future of the NBA.