# Jermaine O'Neal

> American basketball player

**Wikidata**: [Q313499](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q313499)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jermaine_O'Neal)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/jermaine-o-neal

## Summary
Jermaine O'Neal is an American professional basketball player known for his career in the NBA, where he played from 1996 to 2014. He is recognized for his contributions to the sport and was awarded the NBA Most Improved Player Award in 2002.

## Biography
- **Born**: October 13, 1978
- **Nationality**: United States
- **Education**: Not specified in the source material
- **Known for**: Professional basketball career in the NBA
- **Employer(s)**: Various NBA teams (specific teams not listed in the source material)
- **Field(s)**: Basketball

## Contributions
Jermaine O'Neal's primary contributions are in the field of professional basketball. He played in the NBA from 1996 to 2014, during which he achieved significant recognition, including winning the NBA Most Improved Player Award in 2002. His career spanned nearly two decades, making him a notable figure in the sport.

## FAQs
**What is Jermaine O'Neal known for?**
Jermaine O'Neal is known for his career as a professional basketball player in the NBA, where he played from 1996 to 2014. He is particularly recognized for winning the NBA Most Improved Player Award in 2002.

**When was Jermaine O'Neal born?**
Jermaine O'Neal was born on October 13, 1978.

**What award did Jermaine O'Neal receive?**
Jermaine O'Neal received the NBA Most Improved Player Award in 2002.

## Why They Matter
Jermaine O'Neal matters as a significant figure in professional basketball, particularly in the NBA. His career spanned nearly two decades, during which he made notable contributions to the sport. His recognition with the NBA Most Improved Player Award highlights his impact and improvement as a player, influencing the sport and inspiring other athletes.

## Notable For
- **NBA Career**: Played in the NBA from 1996 to 2014.
- **NBA Most Improved Player Award**: Received in 2002.
- **Longevity**: Nearly two decades of professional basketball career.

## Body
### Early Life and Career
Jermaine O'Neal was born on October 13, 1978. He began his professional basketball career in 1996, playing in the NBA. His career spanned nearly two decades, showcasing his dedication and skill in the sport.

### NBA Career and Achievements
O'Neal played in the NBA from 1996 to 2014. During his career, he achieved significant recognition, including winning the NBA Most Improved Player Award in 2002. This award highlights his improvement and impact as a player, making him a notable figure in the sport.

### Legacy and Influence
Jermaine O'Neal's career in the NBA has left a lasting impact on the sport of basketball. His nearly two-decade-long career and the recognition he received, such as the NBA Most Improved Player Award, have influenced the sport and inspired other athletes. His contributions to the NBA and his achievements have solidified his place as a significant figure in professional basketball.

## References

1. [Source](http://espn.go.com/nba/player/_/id/615/jermaine-oneal)
2. [Source](http://espn.go.com/nba/player/stats/_/id/615/jermaine-oneal)
3. [Source](http://espn.go.com/boston/nba/story/_/id/7496164/boston-celtics-defensive-intensity-changes-fortunes)
4. FIBA database
5. RealGM
6. [Source](http://espn.go.com/nba/player/photos/_/id/615/jermaine-oneal)
7. National Basketball Association
8. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013