In sports, legends often test their limits. But sometimes, they bite off more than they can chew. Jimmie Johnson, a seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, recently found himself in such a situation. As he prepares for his 22nd attempt at the Daytona 500, Johnson took on an unexpected challenge against none other than NBA icon Shaquille O’Neal. What started as friendly banter turned into a high-stakes free throw contest, with Jimmie’s 2025 Daytona 500 attempt on the line.

Jimmie Johnson is known for his fierce racing skills and ability to take on challenges. His return to NASCAR in 2025 will mark his 22nd attempt at the Great American Race. But before he could hit the track, he found himself locked in a different kind of battle. After a playful banter with NBA Hall of Famer Shaquille O’Neal, Johnson entered into a bet with his Daytona 500 paint scheme at stake.

Jimmie Johnson’s Daytona ride colors at stake

The back-and-forth between Jimmie Johnson and Shaquille O’Neal started when the NBA star playfully questioned Johnson’s longevity in NASCAR. Shaq questioned Johnson’s decision to make a comeback at this year’s Daytona 500. “Dang, @JimmieJohnson going for another Daytona?! 22 years not enough for you?” he wrote on X. Johnson didn’t hesitate to fire back. “You know it, @SHAQ. I’ve still got the drive. What about you? How’s that jump shot these days?”

The exchange quickly escalated as Shaq challenged Johnson to a free throw contest. Considering Shaq’s poor NBA records, Johnson saw an opportunity and raised the stakes. If Shaq lost, he would have to wear NASCAR gear of Johnson’s choosing. If Johnson lost, Shaq would get creative control over the design of his Daytona 500 car. On Sunday, Feb 2, the duo joined for the challenge at a facility. With confidence, Johnson stepped up to the free throw line, even telling Shaq, “I smell fear.”

As the challenge began, Johnson surprised many by taking an early lead. He looked poised for an upset, going up 3-2. But in the final stretch, the four-time NBA champion found his rhythm. With a comeback victory, Shaq secured a 5-4 win. This victory also gave him the right to redesign Johnson’s No. 84 Toyota for the Great American Race. With just a couple of weeks before the prestigious race, Shaq has a lot of work to do.

While this may have started as a fun challenge, it has sparked curiosity among fans. Shaq has been involved in NASCAR before. In 2013, he made a special appearance at Daytona International Speedway. He even took a lap with NASCAR Hall of Fame Dale Earnhardt Jr. Over the years, Shaq’s respect for the sport has grown, and now, with his unexpected design role, some wonder if this collaboration could lead to something bigger.

Meanwhile, Jimmie Johnson’s focus remains on the track. The 48-year-old NASCAR veteran is set to make some part-time Cup Series appearances. This year he will participate in two marquee races, i.e. the Daytona 500 and the Coca-Cola 600. Notably, if he qualifies for both, he will reach his 700th career start, a milestone that perfectly matches his seven Cup Series championships.

However, making it to Daytona’s main event won’t be easy. With only four open spots available, Johnson will have to fight for his place. Last year, he barely cut, edging out JJ Yeley in a nail-biting finish. This time, he faces tough competition from names like Helio Castroneves and Martin Truex Jr, Shane van Gisbergen, and many more.

Jimmie eyes big with key changes at LMC

Trending

1

Kyle Busch Handed “Final Warning” by NASCAR as Internal Friction Erupts at Chevrolet

2

Justice for NASCAR Legend as FBI Takes Down Elite Car Thieves in Shocking Undercover Operation

3

Chase Elliott Branded NASCAR’s “Last Big Hope” as ‘Loudmouth’ Denny Hamlin Earns Controversial Veteran’s Respect

4

Denny Hamlin Pushed Around at Bowman Gray by Roger Penske’s New Short Track Master

5

Richard Childress & Co Blamed for Kyle Busch’s Failures as NASCAR Veteran Exposes Rowdy’s Career Blunder

Jimmie Johnson’s responsibilities in NASCAR have expanded beyond driving. He is now the majority owner of Legacy Motor Club. Days ahead of the 2025 season his partner Maury Gallagher had decided to step down from day-to-day activities. This massive overhaul allows Johnson to take the charges and dictate the strategies. Notably, in 2023, Johnson partnered with Maury and Richard Petty to establish the LMC.

Initially, Johnson had plans to take over leadership gradually over five years. However, that timeline has sped up, putting him in charge much sooner. Speaking about it with The Express US Sport, he said, “Ultimately, Maury (Gallagher) and I, we had a plan for kind of a five-year evolution where at the end of the five years I would become a majority owner. Life changes, and everything that Maury is so occupied with and busy with from the Allegiant side and other businesses he has and runs, plus just family time and trying to be around for his family.”

However, the road ahead won’t be easy. Legacy Motor Club struggled in its first full season with Toyota, facing performance challenges in 2024. With Johnson now leading the team and Knighthead’s backing, there is hope for improvement. But turning things around will require strategic decisions, strong leadership, and patience.