Shaquille O’Neal Admits How a Tough Male Figure Changed His Life

Shaquille O’Neal was one of the most dominant men the NBA has ever seen. Players had a torrid time defending him on the post. And his quickness and athleticism, which usually ended in a poster, humiliated most players. 

Shaq is also a great entertainer. Ever since he was drafted into the NBA, he’s been entertaining the fans on and off the court. He has featured in multiple movies, released his own rap albums and his commercials never cease to entertain. 

Nowadays, Shaq works as an NBA analyst for TNT’s “Inside the NBA” show with Charles Barkley, Ernie Johnson, and Kenny Smith. He also has his own podcast called “The Big Podcast with Shaq”. And O’Neal makes appearances in other podcasts and gives interviews now and then. During his interviews, he doesn’t shy away from sharing important details about his early life and career. 

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In 2002, Shaquille O’Neal authored a book called “Shaq Talks Back”. The Lakers legend shared some intrinsic details, and he was very candid. He also shared some information about how he turned from an immature boy to an NBA superstar and a champion because of his stepfather.

Shaquille O’Neal and his father

O’Neal went into detail about how his stern stepfather paved the way for his NBA dominance. He said that his stepfather had to handle him physically to discipline him.

Shaq’s father played a pivotal part in shaping the Shaquille O’Neal we know now. In his book, Shaq wrote, “When I was five, we moved to Bayonne, New Jersey. That’s where my father really began disciplining me. He spanked me, he made me hard. He made me a man from day one. I’ll admit, I was a little soft as a child—and very spoiled. It was hard coming up, but he taught me and my brothers and sisters not to worry about materialistic items. At times he couldn’t pay the rent. At night he would have to go to a U-Haul trucking job. Some nights, I’ve seen him not even sleep.”

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While a young Shaq would have had a hard time at first, he definitely feels thankful his father disciplined him. And his father’s impact on O’Neal is very evident. He has also talked about it on various other occasions as well. He has said that he respects Harrison for raising and disciplining someone else’s child like his own child. And said that he wouldn’t be in this position without his influence in his life.

Source: | This article originally belongs to Essentially Sports