NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal didn’t really have the best childhood. Therefore, when he finally got his first big check from the league, things got a little out of control. Eventually, the former Los Angeles Lakers superstar got hold of the financial aspects and gained excellent business skills. The 4x NBA champion is now a self-made millionaire with multiple businesses and huge assets. One of Shaq’s most prized possessions is probably his luxurious car collection which never fails to stun people and the proof of it was provided by a particular celebrity crush of his.
The Big Aristotle did not grow up in what people would call an ideal household that had a mom and a dad. Shaq was born to Lucille O’Neal, who was kicked out by her conservative family when they learned of her pregnancy and her decision to raise him as a single mother. Shaq’s father, Joseph Toney, was a drug addict who was detained by police authorities for possession of drugs. Toney was barely around for Shaq, whereas, his step-father Sergeant Phillip Harrison played a huge part in making Shaq the man that he was today.
Shaquille O’Neal overwhelms his new neighbor
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For fans who are not aware, Shaquille O’Neal once bought a house in LA that was situated across the street from actress Paula Abdul. During an appearance in the Jennifer Hudson show, the host/actress asked Abdul what it was like to be neighbors with the basketball legend. The “Cold Hearted” singer shared that Shaq was looking for a house to buy and the actress’ house was among the ones he was interested in.
However, Abdul felt that it would be too small for him, therefore, she introduced her to her neighbors who had a house that could be perfect for him. As Shaq took a look around the place, he did not waste time in deciding that it was exactly what he wanted and generously offered the owners a little more than the original value.
She said, “He moved in literally across the street from me. That was fantastic! Great, we were both represented by the same business manager, we’re friends and um… then, I didn’t know that came but like…18 billion cars as well.”
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Reflecting on the troubles she had to go through to get past his huge collection of cars, Abdul added, “So I had to go to work in the morning and drive to studios to work but I had to get the keypad code so I could go and get his car keys and move his cars. Try getting into Shaquille O’Neal’s car. I literally was standing like this, standing with my hand, foot until I’m like backing cars out.”
Shaq ‘kidnaps’ Abdul for a New Year’s party
While a New Year is a celebratory event, Paula Abdul preferred staying at home in her cozy sweats. However, her new neighbor was having none of that. Apparently, the 3x NBA Finals MVP was hosting a new year’s party which he wanted Abdul to attend as well. Therefore, the 7ft giant did what he thought would work best. He went over to Abdul’s house, lifted her over his shoulder, and brought her to the party.
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She recalled, “There’s a knock on the door and there is Shaq wearing as bright of pink of a shirt, a three-piece suit with great little skinny grey pinstripes with a pink derby hat and he took me over his shoulder. I’m kicking and screaming, I didn’t want it. I’m in my sweats, everyone’s dressed up, he has a big party.”