NBA Rumors: Shaquille O'Neal Not Interested in Orlando Magic GM Job, He Says in Statement

Rumors that Shaquille O'Neal was interested in the Orlando Magic's vacant General Manager position began circulating late Wednesday and generated plenty of conversation throughout the basketblogosphere. Never fear: Shaq's here to put out the fire, saying in a written statement--here it is on NBA.com's Hang Time Blog-- he will not pursue the job, and that he will continue to work as an analyst for TNT alongside Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith, and host Ernie Johnson.

When I first heard about the vacancy for the Orlando Magic general manager position, I was clearly intrigued. I was drafted by the Magic, I have a great love for the franchise, and I have made the city of Orlando my home. Additionally, I have great admiration and respect for the DeVos family. However, this is not a job I have an interest in pursuing. I feel very fortunate to be with TNT and to have the best job in sports. I look forward to many more years with Charles, Kenny and E.J. I wish the best for the Magic and I am confident that they will select a great GM and coach.

Orlando and Otis Smith, whose official title as President of Basketball Operations included GM responsibilities, made a mutual decision to "part ways" on Monday as part of the Magic's housecleaning efforts; they also fired coach Stan Van Gundy.

Alex Martins, the team's CEO, has indicated he would like to have a new GM by the time the NBA Draft starts on June 28th.

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