Shaquille O'Neal Retires. O'Neal is a Player that Changed the Center Position in the NBA

After 19 seasons, the Big Shaq Diesel has decided to hang up his jersey. It was announced earlier today on ESPN. It is uncertain as to when O'Neal will hold a conference.

O'Neal retires as one of the greatest centers to play for the NBA. Drafted in 1992 by the Orlando Magic, Shaq also went on to play for the Los Angeles Lakers, Miami Heat, Phoenix Suns, Cleveland Cavilers, and the Boston Celtics. He averaged 23.7 ppg, 10.9 rebounds per game, and 2.3 blocks per game. He managed to win 4 NBA title rings, a MVP aware, 3 Finals MVP awards, 14 All NBA team selection, and 3 time NBA All-defensive team.

But, it was not the fact of how many stats Shaq put up. Instead, it was how he played the game and made his presence feel well known. He dominated the boards, played strong in the center position, and carried the team on his shoulders wherever he went. He was always the big man that helped Kobe win 3 NBA titles, Dwayne Wade win an NBA ring, and be the man who left Orlando. He managed to show that to everyone, as he stood his ground and gave opponents a rough time. Shaq has changed the game as a center. No player will ever be the same as him and nobody has seen such a rare player with his potential and caliber. Shaq never asked for too much. He just wanted to win multiple NBA rings and wanted to be the best of the best. To Shaq O'Neal, we will never forget you as a NBA player. We, the fans, want to thank you for what you have done to the NBA and showed us the type of player you are.