In one of the most unexpected yet exciting developments in college basketball, NBA legends Shaquille O’Neal and Mike Bibby have officially teamed up — not on the hardwood, but in the college ranks. Shaq is stepping into a voluntary front office role at Sacramento State, where his son Shaqir O’Neal is currently playing under none other than former NBA point guard Mike Bibby. And just like that, Sac State becomes must-watch basketball.
Let’s be clear: this isn’t a publicity stunt. Shaq, known as much for his business moves and mentorship as his Hall of Fame playing career, is genuinely invested in the future of the program — and especially in his son’s development. His new role as a volunteer GM gives him the opportunity to help build the program from the inside out, using his basketball IQ, marketing muscle, and unmistakable presence to elevate Sacramento State’s profile on and off the court.
Bibby, who starred at Arizona before a long NBA career, is already earning praise as a player-friendly coach with a deep understanding of the game. Now, with Shaq joining him in a leadership capacity, Sac State isn’t just getting attention — it’s gaining credibility. The Bibby-Shaq duo brings name value, championship pedigree, and instant swagger to a program that’s hungry to make its mark.
Shaq’s involvement adds serious weight to Sac State’s recruiting and player development strategy. Imagine being a high school recruit and walking into a gym where Shaquille O’Neal is casually sitting courtside at practice, then giving you tips afterward. That’s not just inspiring — that’s game-changing. The influence he can have in a voluntary GM role is enormous, even if he’s not collecting a paycheck. This is about legacy, mentorship, and putting family first.
It’s also personal. Shaqir O’Neal has quietly been developing his own game, and now, with his dad close by and Mike Bibby guiding the system, he’s in a uniquely supported environment. While the spotlight naturally follows the O’Neal name, Shaqir is starting to prove he’s more than just a famous son — and having that infrastructure of support only strengthens his path.
For Bibby, this partnership is just as exciting. He and Shaq came from the same NBA era, and there’s a natural respect between them. Together, they can turn Sac State into a breeding ground for hungry players who want a mix of old-school knowledge and modern player empowerment.
In a world where college basketball is constantly evolving — with NIL, transfers, and shifting power dynamics — Sac State may have just created a new blueprint. A respected former NBA coach on the bench, an iconic Hall of Famer in the front office, and a foundation built around development, discipline, and opportunity.
It may have started as a move to support his son, but Shaq’s involvement is already shifting the perception of what’s possible at the mid-major level.
Shaq and Bibby — college basketball’s newest power duo. Let the show begin.
