NEW ORLEANS (Sept. 9, 2025) — When Master P took the reins at the University of New Orleans men’s basketball program earlier this year, fans expected energy, recruiting flair, and a shot of hip-hop culture injected into the Privateers. What they might not have expected, however, is that the hip-hop mogul turned basketball coach would immediately set his sights on a showdown with one of the biggest names in basketball history: Shaquille O’Neal.

In a conversation with TMZ Sports, Master P didn’t mince words — he wants the smoke with Shaq, challenging the Hall of Famer to pit their schools against each other in a college basketball clash. O’Neal, who has ties to Sacramento State through his ongoing support and community initiatives, would serve as the counterpart in what P hopes could become a unique crossover event.

Basketball Meets Entertainment

The 2025–26 college basketball schedule has already been finalized, making a potential UNO–Sacramento State matchup unlikely in the immediate future. Still, Master P said the idea of creating an event featuring the two schools is something he’d like to pursue down the road.

“We’re talking about competition, bragging rights, and bringing excitement to college basketball,” Master P said. “I’ve got my program at UNO, Shaq’s connected with Sacramento State, so why not give the fans something fun?”

The two icons already share larger-than-life personalities, deep basketball ties, and long-standing entertainment careers. P starred in high school basketball before brief professional stints, while O’Neal dominated at LSU before becoming one of the greatest centers in NBA history. Both have also crossed into music, media, and business, giving this challenge a multi-dimensional flair.

A DJ Battle for Bragging Rights

Knowing that an official game isn’t possible this season, Master P floated an alternative — a DJ battle between himself and Shaq. The idea leans into their off-court personas: Master P as the founder of No Limit Records and a pioneer of Southern rap, and Shaq as “DJ Diesel,” who regularly headlines major music festivals and brings his 7-foot-1 frame to the turntables.

“People know Shaq can DJ. I can DJ too,” Master P said with a grin. “If we can’t get our teams on the court right away, let’s get on the stage and see who runs the music.”

Such an event could generate crossover appeal, blending basketball, music, and entertainment into a spectacle that resonates with fans beyond the college hardwood.

Why It Matters for UNO and Sacramento State

For the University of New Orleans, Master P’s presence has already boosted the program’s profile, helping to attract attention that mid-major schools often struggle to secure. A matchup against a program tied to O’Neal — or even a side event involving the two — could bring national spotlight and recruiting buzz to UNO.

Sacramento State, meanwhile, has made steady strides in the Big Sky Conference and would welcome the exposure of a unique showcase. Both schools stand to benefit from creative branding opportunities, whether on the basketball court or through an entertainment-driven collaboration.

Shaq Yet to Respond

As of Sunday, Shaquille O’Neal has not publicly responded to Master P’s challenge. But given Shaq’s history of embracing fun, competition, and spectacle — from his dominance on the court to his ventures in television, film, and music — it’s hard to imagine the Hall of Famer passing on the opportunity for a friendly rivalry.

Even if a game never materializes, the DJ battle alone could draw crowds, headlines, and a social media frenzy.

Looking Ahead

The prospect of two basketball legends-turned-entertainers finding creative ways to engage fans speaks to the evolving landscape of college athletics. Schools are increasingly looking for ways to stand out, and figures like Master P and O’Neal have the cultural capital to make it happen.

For now, UNO’s 2025–26 season will proceed as scheduled, but Master P made one thing clear: he wants to see Shaq across the scorer’s table, whether on the court or behind the decks.

“Basketball, music, culture — this is what it’s all about,” P said. “We can compete anywhere.”