Shaquille O’Neal Jokingly ‘Upset’ Over Lakers’ $10 Billion Sale: “I Ain’t Get Nothing, Dog” | NBA News
Shaquille O’Neal has never been shy about speaking his mind—and this time, it’s about the Los Angeles Lakers’ blockbuster $10 billion sale. In a humorous yet nostalgic segment on The Big Podcast, the Lakers legend expressed mock frustration over not receiving any financial token or gesture from the franchise he helped make globally iconic.
Los Angeles Lakers’ Monumental Sale Sparks Laughter—and a Few Jokes
The Buss family’s recent decision to sell the Los Angeles Lakers to billionaire Mark Walter at a stunning $10 billion valuation drew reactions from all corners of the basketball world. Long criticized for their ‘frugal’ spending, the Lakers now appear poised for a financial refresh that could impact everything from roster building to facilities.Yet, while fans celebrated, Shaquille O’Neal found a way to lighten the mood—by poking fun at what he didn’t receive from the windfall.“You know I’m a little upset, right?” Shaq said.“The Lakers got sold for $10 billion, and I ain’t get no Douly. I ain’t get no brand-new Escalade. I ain’t get nothing, dog.”
Why Is Shaq “Upset” With the Lakers Sale?
| Shaq’s Complaints | Explanation |
| No gifts received | He jokingly lamented not getting a car or even a token of appreciation |
| Lack of recognition | He hinted that Lakers icons like himself, Magic Johnson, and Kobe Bryant should’ve been honored monetarily |
| End of an era | Suggested he might never see Jeanie Buss again after the sale |
Despite the comic tone, Shaq made a subtle point—some level of recognition might have felt appropriate for players who were instrumental in building the Los Angeles Lakers’ brand value.
“Thank You” Isn’t Enough—Not for Shaq O’Neal
One of the podcast co-hosts reminded Shaq that he did receive a “thank you for your service,” but the Hall of Famer wasn’t satisfied.“Thank you for your service”? It was Magic, me, and Kobe like—can I get something?I mean, can I get a check for, like, you know, $50 million… something? Something. Come on—$10 billion?”The remark was vintage Shaq—larger-than-life, humorous, but grounded in the reality that his contributions helped shape the Lakers into a multi-billion dollar franchise.
A Farewell to Jeanie Buss?
Shaquille O’Neal also took a moment to joke about the Los Angeles Lakers’ former governor and team president, Jeanie Buss. With the sale now official, Shaq joked that she’s probably off on new adventures of her own: “Jeanie Buss… you probably won’t never see her again.She probably gonna be on that spaceship with Elon Musk after that.”It’s classic Shaq—a blend of wit, loyalty, and just a hint of disappointment that the chapter he helped write may be closing without so much as a ceremonial gesture.
Shaquille O’Neal’s Legacy with the Lakers
| Accomplishment | Detail |
| NBA Titles with Lakers | 3 (2000, 2001, 2002) |
| Finals MVP Awards | 3 |
| NBA All-Star Selections | 15 |
| Lakers Teammate | Kobe Bryant |
| Legacy | Helped build the Lakers’ dynasty in the early 2000s |
Together with Kobe Bryant, Shaq formed one of the most dominant duos in basketball history. Their three-peat to kick off the 21st century remains a defining moment in NBA lore.While Shaquille O’Neal’s comments were clearly made in jest, they underline a deeper truth: the emotional connection legends have with their franchises doesn’t always end when they hang up the jersey. In Shaq’s case, his playful remarks serve as a reminder that recognition—symbolic or otherwise—still matters, even when the spotlight has shifted.Also read: Golden State Warriors Pass on Deandre Ayton Amid Center Crisis: Smart Strategy or Missed Opportunity?And as the Los Angeles Lakers enter a new chapter under new ownership, one can only hope they continue to honor the giants who made the franchise what it is today.
