Shaq retires after 19 seasons – the locker room will never be the same

The NBA is no longer with my favorite player in the league, Shaquille O’Neal. Shaq announced his decision Wednesday on twitter and later held a news conference at his Florida home Friday.

At 7-1, 325 pounds, Shaq is a goofy and loveable guy. How can you not be a fan of one of the most dominant centers in the game?

A 4-time champion, Shaq instantly made every one of his teams better. Beginning in Orlando and ending in Boston, he made stops in almost every big city including LA, Miami, Phoenix and Cleveland.

What makes Shaq so unique is that he doesn’t take himself serious. Right away, he said he didn’t like his name or his height. So he was determined to become established and make everyone remember his name. And he has.

Shaq is notorious for his on and off the court antics. It’s rare to catch the big-fella without a smile on his face…but when he doesn’t, avoid him at all costs.

Shaq Diesel averaged 23.7 points and 10.9 rebounds per game in his 19-year career. He won four NBA championships; three with Los Angeles and one with Miami. He also was the NBA Finals MVP three years in a row (2000-2002) with LA.

What made him so special was that he appreciated the game and had fun with it. Not only was he a professional star, but he was an entertainer. Shaq was interactive with fans on twitter, because most people actually knew what it was.

He has been a social phenomenon for so long. His light-hearted humor and ability to relate with fans is remarkable.

After dealing with Shaq for so many years, my favorite thing about him was his willingness to make fun of himself, others and I. He always lightened up the mood and kept everyone on their toes. He is a tremendous influence that will certainly missed.

Everyone is not as easy to deal with. I took take of him while he was in town, and he took care of me. Simple as that. He also harassed those in the locker room (in a good way) and kept the jokes coming.

Don’t expect him from stay away from the limelight for good.

“I do plan on entertaining you for the next 19 years,” Shaq said at his news conference Friday. “Whether it’s TNT, ESPN, CNN or whoever wants to hire me, my office is opens on Monday. Give me a call.”

I’m sure the broadcasting powers are already in a bidding war. It would be appropriate to see him on ESPN where they could use a new voice, someone to bring a new perspective. Heck, he could take Magic Johnson’s position…he’s just a Lakers homer. Meanwhile, TNT could also benefit from his presence and following. Enough of Charles Barkley.

His unique personality and force down low won’t ever be duplicated.. Shaq’s retirement is a gigantic loss to the NBA.

Follow Scott on twitter @ScottAgness.