In the history of sports, only a handful of people can stand at the same level as Shaquille O’Neal. A dominant force on the basketball court, O’Neal is also an entertaining media personality. His face and voice are now synonymous with multiple brands. In fact, he’s built a successful career out of endorsements and advertisements; and of course, his entrepreneurial ventures.

His peer, Charles Barkley, co-hosts with Shaq on TNT’s “Inside the NBA.” Also known for his candor, Charles’s appearance on Conan O’Brien’s podcast revealed a bit too much about Shaq. This time, Shaq’s endorsement credibility is on the line. Humorously, Barkley questions the authenticity of O’Neal’s relationship with the products he endorses. 

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Shaq’s advertising career is pretty successful. He has earned an estimated $200 million through endorsements alone. And, we don’t think he’s going anywhere, anytime soon!

Barkley thinks so too. According to him, “How can he disappear, he is on TV every day… The guy got more commercials than any person in the history of civilization.”

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Adding to this, O’Brien asks Barkley if O’Neal actually believes in the products he endorses. Barkley’s response to this is pretty hilarious.

He resoundingly says, “Hell no.”

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“You don’t think Shaq believes in those products?” O’Brien asks. Conan goes on to question whether O’Neal actually used Icy Hot, had insurance with The General, or even ate Papa John’s pizza – all brands that O’Neal has famously endorsed.

The conversation, while filled with laughter, exposed the credibility of those endorsements. Charles further says, “I think we should out him. I think people should know that Shaq does not use icy hot he does not have general insurance, and does not eat Papa johns pizza.” and everybody chuckles. 

Shaq’s defense on the question of credibility

Despite Barkley’s doubts about Shaquille’s endorsement authenticity, Shaq himself has consistently maintained he only endorses products he genuinely uses and believes in.

In a previous interview addressing the issue, O’Neal passionately defended his endorsement deals, shedding light on his personal connection to some of the products in question. He defended his endorsement deals, stating “The General was my first car insurance when I was at LSU. I do use Icy Hot… And I do eat at Papa John’s.”

Watch the Story – How much did Shaquille O’Neal and other stars make from the one common investment?

While Charles Barkley’s humorous comments may have sparked a discussion about the credibility of Shaq’s endorsements but his own words provide a strong counterargument. What’s your take on this? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.