Shaquille O’Neal could be one of the most generous players in NBA history. Shaq has been able to make a lot of money during the course of his legendary career. But he doesn’t seem to hold his money on to himself and likes to help as many people as he can.
Former NBA player and teammate of Shaquille O’Neal John Salley revealed the extent of his generosity. When Salley was having some financial trouble, O’Neal lent him $70,000 and never asked for it in return, even when Salley tried to return it to him once he was able to (3:33 onward).
“When I needed cash he (Shaq) said, ‘How much?’” Salley remembered. When the host asked, how much Shaq lent Salley. He said, “Seventy. To this day. And anyway there’s deal I went back to him, he said ‘nah nah we’re good.’”
O’Neal’s charitable nature is not a new thing. Many stories from the past have come out where Shaq has been able to help people, especially those who are needy. He once gave a restaurant server $4000 in tips, just because they asked him. So clearly, Shaq is always ready to help people when they need it.
On top of that, he has shown his genuine caring for people. He revealed why he ended his contract with Reebok because he didn’t want his fans to pay $160 to $200 for his shoes, and then decided to make more affordable shoes. So Shaq is more concerned with helping people than his financial status.
Shaq will always be heralded as one of the kindest players in NBA history, and one who goes out of his way to help people less fortunate than him and who needs his help. And that makes Shaq a massive legend on and off the basketball court.
