Shaquille O'Neal Retires After 19 Seasons - Photo Gallery - Celtics.com

Shaquille O'Neal Retires at Age 39

Shaquille O'Neal decided it was time to throw in the towel after an illustrious 19-year NBA career, announcing his retirement via Twitter Wednesday afternoon. The 15-time All-Star also hosted a press conference at his Orlando, Fla. home on Friday and thanked the NBA and his fans for supporting him throughout his career.

Shaq specifically thanked Doc Rivers and the Celtics, expressing his respect for the team-first attitude embodied by the organization. Shaq expanded upon his admiration for Doc by thanking him for contributing to his "growth and development as a player and person".

Read More: Shaq Closes Career | Shaq Calls It Quits Via Twitter