Before Ditching Reebok Because of 1 Woman, Shaquille O?Neal Pulled Off a Michael Jordan Move On Nike

Shaquille O?Neal had an illustrious career in the NBA, winning four championships and 15 All-Star appearances. Naturally, like any other top player in the NBA, there were once companies lined up to sign the superstar. But The Big Aristotle being the man he is, decided to be a little mischievous as he pulled a page out of Michael Jordan?s playbook. The young star met with the different companies lined up for his signature.

Shaq made a cheeky move while meeting a sports giant. The act resembled the great Michael Jordan, as some of us remember ?His Airness? doing something similar.

Shaquille O?Neal and his meeting with Nike

Shaquille O?Neal has never been short of personality, during an interview recently, O?Neal recalled his cheeky move against Nike. Before meeting Nike for a possible deal, the Lakers legend was almost sure about his move with Reebok. He mentioned that at the time the homegrown sportswear brand was the closest to understanding what he wanted. And as a result, The Big Aristotle walked into the room with Nike wearing a Reebok jacket.?

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This is something Michael Jordan already attempted, the Bulls legend sported an Adidas sneaker to a meeting with Converse. However, Jordan then signed with Nike and the duo went on to change the sneaker culture forever.

Despite all of this, the four-time champion’s stint with Reebok ended abruptly. O?Neal once mentioned that he ended his deal with Reebok due to a Mother complaining about the high price of his signature sneakers. As the Los Angeles Lakers legend heard how a mother was unable to afford his shoes, he understood his mistake. It was then that he decided to forego his $40 Million deal to help kids get affordable signature shoes.

O’Neal then went on to sign a deal with Walmart, aiming for affordable shoes for kids. He went ahead with a slight change in marketing strategy.

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He decided to not sell cheap shoes but sell good shoes at an affordable price. And apparently, the deal turned successful as the 7-foot giant?s collaboration has led to over 120 million shoes sold as of 2016.?

What do you think about Shaquille O’Neal wearing Reebok apparel for a meeting with Nike? Let us know in the comments.