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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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