The Orlando Magic retired Shaquille O'Neal's jersey on Tuesday, making him the first player to receive this honor in the Orlando franchise.
"I have many wonderful Magic memories. There is no other place I would have wanted to start my career," the legendary center said at the ceremony.
"Orlando will always have a special place in my heart," added O'Neal, who had words of praise for other illustrious Magic players such as Nick Anderson and 'Penny' Hardaway, who were present at the event.
"To celebrate our 35th anniversary this season, we will officially retire the number 32 jersey in honor of Shaquille O'Neal during a ceremony on February 13," the team said in January when announcing the tribute.
O'Neal debuted in 1992 in the NBA with the Magic and reached the NBA Finals with them in 1995.
Champion of four NBA titles, O'Neal had already retired his jersey with number 34 in the Los Angeles Lakers, with whom he won three rings (2000-2002); and with number 32 in the Miami Heat, with whom he won his last trophy (2006).
After the retirement of his number with the Orlando Magic, the former center becomes the third player in history with three numbers retired, joining the select club of Wilt Chamberlain and Pete Maravich.
The tribute to O'Neal took place after the game that the Thunder won 113-127. Jalen Williams (33 points) and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (32 points) were the best for Oklahoma City, which is second in the West with a record of 37-17. For his part, Paolo Banchero (23 points, 6 rebounds and 10 assists) led Orlando (29-25).
