Shaquille O’Neal has finally shared why he passed on joining the New York Knicks after his time with the Los Angeles Lakers came to an end.
Speaking on the latest episode of The Big Podcast, the Hall of Fame center said New York was a serious option—but his lifestyle ultimately made the decision for him.
“Confession… after I left the Lakers the Knicks was a contender but I turned around because I like driving and you can’t drive in New York,” O’Neal admitted on the show.
The 15-time All-Star explained that his preference for large vehicles clashed with the city’s infrastructure.
“You can’t drive. I got two big trucks… no I got two big trucks that’ll get tore off in New York,” O’Neal said. “You can’t—one, you can’t park them nowhere. Yeah there’s no space for you on the street.”
O’Neal left the Lakers in 2004 following a championship run with Kobe Bryant that produced three NBA titles. At the time, several teams were reportedly in the mix for the dominant big man.
New York, which was coming off a 39-win season and had just made the playoffs, was among the rumored suitors. The idea of Shaq in a Knicks uniform had appeal, especially in a media market like Manhattan.
However, O’Neal chose to sign with the Miami Heat, where he went on to win his fourth and final NBA title in 2006.
The 7-foot-1 center’s decision may have come down to more than just basketball fit. His comments on The Big Podcast highlight how off-court preferences, including transportation and lifestyle, can influence free agency choices.
New York’s cramped streets, limited parking, and congested traffic have long been deterrents for athletes accustomed to more space and privacy.
For O’Neal, his love of driving and oversized vehicles made Miami a more practical destination.
