Earning $40 Million at Age 18, Shaquille O’Neal Was Stunned by People Breaking Into Bill Russell’s House in Shocking Incidents of Racism

Shaquille O’Neal is one of the players who has come from a humble background. Not being as wealthy during his childhood, he has turned around to become one of the richest basketball players of all time. With a net worth of $400 million, he has certainly made a lot of name and fame. But, at the same time, he’s as humble as anyone can be. He will never complain about anything, never show off, or never even talks about his wealth.

There’s a reason for him not being arrogant and so down-to-earth. He revealed that reason recently. It was related to the legend Bill Russell himself. Conversations with legends can have a deep impact on young players, and this is exactly what happened when Shaq was young. Continue reading to find out what changed Shaq’s life altogether.

Shaquille O’Neal and his conversation with Bill Russell

Shaquille O’Neal is a person which respects the legends for what they’ve done for the game. He gives them the respect that they deserve. The conversations and life-values learnt from the legends are what make him a legend as well. Despite being talented, so much so that he was also included in the talks about being the best centre of all time, he never was arrogant about it.

READ MORE: Father of 3 Daughters, Shaquille O’Neal Admits They Don’t Let Him Meet Their Boyfriends

Once, when asked if he considers himself as the best center in the Lakers, he said he was even humbled to be named in the same breath as them. He described a similar life-changing talk with Bill Russell recently on his podcast.

On the recent episode of his podcast, ‘the big podcast’, he mentioned about his conversation with Bill Russell when he was young. He said that after that conversation, he realised he had no right to be spoiled. What had happened was, in a conversation with Bill Russell, he mentioned about his struggles.

He said that during his time with the Celtics, he had many experiences which one would only describe as ‘harsh’. He said that his teammates used to break into his house after matches and go through in and throughout. Bill also mentioned about other struggles he faced because of racism. This made Shaq realize that he had a lot many privileges. Earning more than even $40 Million at the age of just 18, he was at ease over many issues which others have felt.

WATCH THIS STORY: Did Shaq ever play for the Celtics?

How did you like this story? Let us know in the comments.