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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Shaq joins the Kings

The larger-than-life figure that teased and tormented the Sacramento Kings for so long is now the biggest name to join the franchise’s new ownership group. The Kings announced Monday that Shaquille O’Neal, a four-time NBA champion, has acquired a minority stake in the team under new owner Vivek Ranadive. During the height of his career with the Los Angeles Lakers, O’Neal fueled the rivalry with the Kings with his play on the court and his personality off it. O’Neal handed Sacramento its biggest blow by rallying the Lakers from a 3-2 deficit to win the 2002 Western Conference finals, which is still a sore spot for Kings fans. The 7-foot-1 center even labeled the franchise the “Sacramento Queens” and accused fan favorite Vlade Divac – whom he referred to as “she” at one point – of flopping. – Associated Press