“If There Are Any Diplomats Watching..”: Shaquille O’Neal Broke Silence on Dennis Rodman’s North Korea Visit in 2013

Dennis Rodman is widely regarded as the original bad boy of the NBA. The flamboyant star was a fearless character on the hardwood. However, after his retirement, he shocked the world. Taking along three members of the Harlem Globetrotters, the Worm went on a trip to North Korea. And NBA Hall of Famer Shaquille O’Neal had some advice for Rodman’s daunting expedition.

In 2013, Rodman started his bond with North Korea’s leader, Kim Jong-Un. Notably, his first visit in 2013 was to promote the brand of basketball in the country. However, he soon found out North Korea’s leader is a diehard basketball fan. Holding a soft spot for the Chicago Bulls, the pair became friends. Likewise, the unlikely bond caused a major buzz around the world. Since then, the Worm has visited the country many more times.

However, Shaquille O’Neal spoke from a point of concern. During an interview, the Big Diesel said Rodman’s trip was a very big risk.

Shaquille O’Neal sounds off on Dennis Rodman’s North Korea trip

Rodman’s 2013 trip to North Korea opened up the gates of controversy. Many looked down upon the Bulls legend. However, Shaq felt the move was full of risks. Joking about Rodman’s diplomatic side, the Big Aristotle also offered himself to be next in line.

READ MORE – Dennis Rodman, Who Claims He Can Help Brittney Griner in Russia, Wouldn’t Be USA’s Informal Rep to North Korea if Not for Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen

Shaquille O’Neal said: “It was a very — very risky move what he did. I’m not a diplomat, but if there are any diplomats watching and you want to make me a diplomat, just give me a call.”

2013 was the beginning of Rodman’s role as an unofficial USA diplomat. The Worm even went to Singapore to attend the summit between Donald Trump and Kim Jong-Un. While the USA has denied his role as a diplomat, the five-time NBA champion feels he deserves it. Notably, Rodman’s rant even helped free Kenneth Bae from North Korea. His bond with North Korea’s leaders seems to be tight as he calls him a friend for life.

Likewise, recently, Rodman wrote another chapter on his role as a diplomat. The former Defensive Player of The Year claimed he is making his way to Russia to bring WNBA star Brittney Griner back home. However, the Worm backed out of his commitment soon after.

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