For the Orlando Magic, Shaquille O’Neal accomplished many of the franchise’s firsts.
O’Neal would serve as the Magic’s first No. 1 overall pick, NBA All-Star, Rookie of the Year and scoring champion. On this day 30 years ago, O’Neal made his debut in a 110-100 victory over the Miami Heat.
Orlando was coming off a 21-61 season as it began the new campaign at Orlando Arena on Nov. 6, 1992. The Heat were coming off their first playoff appearance the year prior. Thanks to a double-double from O’Neal and a big second half, it was clear that Sunshine State supremacy was changing in the NBA.