“I Didn’t Want People to See Shaq’s Mother as a Drunk”: Lucille O’Neal Beat Her Demons to Not Harm $400 Million Worth Son Shaquille O’Neal’s Image

NBA Legend Shaquille O’Neal gives his mother a lot of credit for helping him get to where he is today. She worked really hard to support Shaq and the family, and her son has always held her in high regard for the same. But his mom had to beat her own demons to not harm the $400 Million star and his public image.

Running a riot inside the ring, Shaq shot to fame almost instantly. He made his debut in the 90s, and is a household name even today. After his playing career, he became a basketball analyst on the NBA on TNT show. However, according to his mother, his fame and success were in danger, due to her addiction.

Lucille O’Neal beat alcoholism to protect her son Shaquille O’Neal’s legacy

Shaq’s mom, Lucille, was battling alcoholism in her younger days. However, as her son grew popular, she also successfully overcame her addiction. When asked what made her stop drinking, she said, “I got tired of being sick, of having hangovers in the morning. I began to lose my memory. And I didn’t want to embarrass Shaquille.”

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“I didn’t want people to see Shaq’s mother as a drunk. I was using his money to buy the best liquor. The world was paying more attention and I needed to give them something positive to look at. You have to make up your mind that you’re going to better yourself. I wasn’t a bad mother, but I had demons,” she added.

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Today, Shaq is not just an NBA legend; he is a successful businessman having pursued several ventures. He also continues to give back to society, with this generosity knowing no bounds.

Shaq’s mom understood what was at stake, and she eventually could overcome her struggles. She started believing in herself and arose victorious over her addiction; she has now been clean for over 15 years. Undoubtedly, like her son, Lucille O’Neal is an inspiration in her own right.