Among NBA players past and present, only a few can claim to be bigger than Shaquille O’Neal… both literally and figuratively.
The former Los Angeles Lakers center is one of the most famous people on the planet for his achievements and popularity on and off the hardwood. However, he rejects the notion that he’s a “celebrity” and explained why.
Lakers Great Shaquille O’Neal Thinks Celebrities Are ‘Weird’
O’Neal is one of the most easily recognizable people and names in sports history thanks to his dominance on the hardwood. Throughout his Hall-of-Fame career, he was a four-time champion, a Most Valuable Player, a two-time scoring champ, and a 15-time All-Star.
That fame, which started on the basketball court and grew into something more, gave him opportunities to showcase his talents beyond the hardwood. He’s now a well-known brand endorser, DJ, rapper, movie star, and podcast host.
Aside from being a bona fide NBA legend, O’Neal’s other endeavors have only expanded his fame and popularity. However, the Laker great doesn’t want to be associated with celebrity culture.
“I denounced myself from being a celebrity about 10 years ago because those people are weird,” O’Neal told the New York Post.
He explained that he doesn’t have an entourage like other celebrities.
“Whenever I come in, it’s me and two guys. No entourage,” he said. “There’s nothing but homeboys coming in. We come in here, we take care of business. We sign autographs. We treat people with honor and respect. I want to be a regular guy.”
In the same article, O’Neal was also quoted as saying he no longer exchanges text messages with NBA players for a very interesting reason.
“None. I don’t like athletes or superstars because they’re a**holes,” O’Neal said.
O’Neal still interacts with some current and former players as part of his “Inside the NBA” gig, including his co-hosts, Charles Barkley and Kenny Smith. He also occasionally interviews today’s NBA stars on the show.
Of course, speaking with NBA stars because his job requires it is different from speaking with them personally when he’s off the clock. Based on his statement, it seems O’Neal has sworn off the latter, choosing only to deal with those people when he’s on the job.
While many would consider Shaq a celebrity strictly based on his fame and popularity, it’s clear that the Lakers great isn’t a fan of the modern celebrity culture and some of the people in it.
