The Los Angeles Lakers are unveiling a statue of Shaquille O’Neal outside of Staples Center Friday night, but new team general manager Magic Johnson reportedly won’t be around for the ceremony.
But at least he has a good reason for missing the big event.
According to ESPN’s Marc Stein, Johnson will be across the country attending the UCLA vs. Kentucky Sweet 16 game, as he realizes this is a one-time-only opportunity to scout the tremendous players on both teams at the same time.
Hearing Magic Johnson, knowing UCLA/Kentucky is a scouting must first-hand, will reluctantly miss Shaquille O'Neal's statue ceremony tonight
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) March 24, 2017
With guys like Wayman Tisdale Award winner Lonzo Ball (who’s better than Stephen Curry, if you ask his dad), Malik Monk, De’Aaron Fox, TJ Leaf, Isaiah Briscoe and Bryce Alford all hitting the floor at the same time Friday night — on the big stage of the NCAA Tournament, no less — Johnson is certainly making the smart move here.
Interestingly, Shaq’s former coach, Phil Jackson, will be attending.
Phil Jackson will attend Shaq's ceremony, according to the Orange County Register. Knicks GM Steve Mills expected at UCLA-Kentucky: https://t.co/3G7yd62J20
— Ian Begley (@IanBegley) March 24, 2017
We all know Shaq has a big ego, but we’re betting the big man will approve of this decision by Johnson, who has the future of the Lakers organization to think about.