What team is Shareef O'Neal playing for in 2024?

By Justin Rubin March 18, 2024 01:28

Photo by Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports

Shareef O'Neal, the son of basketball legend Shaquille O'Neal, is set to embark on a new chapter in his basketball career as he signs a contract with the G League Ignite for the 2024 season.

This move comes after a series of medical setbacks that disrupted his college career and led to him going undrafted in 2022.

The G League Ignite

The G League Ignite was established as an experimental minor league team primarily aimed at providing a developmental platform for high school and international players who opt not to pursue the traditional college basketball route to the NBA.

Notable players such as Jalen Green, Jonathan Kuminga, and Scoot Henderson have all made significant strides in their careers after being part of the Ignite program.

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Shareef O'Neal's Basketball Journey

After facing several medical challenges, including open-heart surgery during his time at UCLA and foot injuries after transferring to LSU, Shareef O'Neal is determined to get his career back on track and elevate his profile as a professional basketball player.

His experience with the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2022 Summer League showcased his potential, where he averaged 4.7 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 10.9 minutes per game.

G League Ignite: Pathway to the NBA

The G League Ignite has served as a launchpad for several players to transition into the NBA. Jalen Green, the first player to sign for Ignite in 2019, was subsequently drafted second overall by the Rockets in 2021 and named to the 2022 All-Rookie Team.

Similarly, Jonathan Kuminga and Dyson Daniels began their pro careers with Ignite before becoming international top-10 draft picks.

Scoot Henderson, considered one of the best high school prospects, also signed with Ignite and is a potential 2023 lottery pick.

Shareef O'Neal's Professional Contract

Shareef O'Neal's signing with G League Ignite marks a significant milestone in his career.

While the specifics of many team contracts, including O'Neal's, are not always disclosed, it has been reported that notable players like Jalen Green and Scoot Henderson received $500,000 per season to play for the G League team.

G League Ignite vs. Overtime Elite

G League Ignite competes for talent with Overtime Elite, another platform for top prospects.

The battle for recruiting promising players adds an interesting dynamic to the landscape of basketball development and provides opportunities for young talents to flourish in alternative pathways to the NBA.

Shareef O'Neal: A Promising Prospect

Shareef O'Neal's journey to the G League Ignite exemplifies resilience and determination in the face of adversity.

Despite his setbacks, O'Neal's commitment to his basketball career, coupled with his potential and talent, makes him a compelling prospect for the 2024 season with G League Ignite.

With the support of the team and his dedication to further developing his game, O'Neal is poised to make his mark in the professional basketball arena.