“I’m Going to Stand”: Shaquille O’Neal Rejects Colin Kaepernick and Other Athletes’ Bold National Anthem Stance

Former NFL star Colin Kaepernick caused a frenzy across the world with his controversial stance on standing during the National Anthem. While numerous people across the world agreed with Kaepernick’s views, many called out the star athlete for his actions. Kaepernick made headlines when he refused to stand for the National Anthem a few years ago. His actions were an expression of dissent against rampant injustices toward the country’s minority groups. Meanwhile, Shaquille O’Neal revealed his disagreement with Kaepernick’s form of protest in a recent interview.

Shaq did not agree with Kaepernick’s views in the past too, when he was asked to comment about it. He has still kept the same feelings on the matter. Shaq revealed why he doesn’t side with athletes like Colin Kaepernick, who consider kneeling during the national anthem as a form of protest.

Shaquille O’Neal rejects Colin Kaepernick’s form of protest

During a recent interview with ‘Time’, Shaq was asked to comment on athletes like Colin Kaepernick who prefer kneeling during the National Anthem. Kaepernick is a former NFL star who refused to stand up during the National Anthem, which brought in a lot of backlash from different sections of fans.

Addressing the sensitive topic, Shaq said, “My basic message is, you do what you feel is right. However, me, I’m going to stand. I didn’t say he’s wrong. That’s not my place. If that’s what you feel, cool. But I’m never going to disrespect the Sarge.”

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O’Neal’s stepfather, Phillip Harrison is a former Army Sergeant who played a huge part in shaping his son’s life. Keeping his sacrifices for the country and his patriotism in mind, the Los Angeles Lakers legend does not agree with athletes like Kaepernick. In fact, the Big Diesel clarified that he’d never kneel during the nastional anthem, no matter how much hate he receives for it.

“During that moment, people would like you to stand and put your hand on your chest. If you want to say something, I would have waited until after that moment, at the press conference,” Shaq added.

Shaq did not agree with Kaepernick in the past as well

The Colin Kaepernick controversy gripped the sporting world in 2016. During a road game, Kaepernick knelt during the National Anthem. Many athletes and celebrities across the world expressed their support for the former NFL star.

Talking about the whole issue, Shaquille O’Neal said, “I would never do that.” He has stayed strong about his views and in the recent ‘Time’ interview, O’Neal elaborated on why he would never do what Kaepernick did.

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Do you agree with Shaq? Let us know in the comments down below.