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via Getty

via Getty

Shaquille O’Neal set his basketball powers to rest years ago; however, he has continued to add to his amazing success story. He established a habit of stockpiling accolades during his tenure in the NBA, carving out a legendary career for himself. However, the drive to be the best possible version of himself in everything he does remains as strong as it was at the outset.

Shaq has made tremendous strides in the business realm after capping off a legendary NBA career. Owing to his multiple smart investments, the big man has continued to amass a fortune and is worth over $400 million today. However, the desire to make a boatload of money isn’t the driving factor behind all of this success. In fact, it’s far bigger than that.

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In a recent interview with the Big Diesel, Grant Cardone claimed that Shaq seems to be driven by success and money. He remarked that it feels like winning is an obligation for the NBA legend and not an option. When asked for his thoughts, Shaq, right off the bat, disagreed with him.

The Los Angeles Lakers legend went on to claim that he is driven by knowing that he is blessed. He added that wanting to make other people smile is also a driving factor for him. Furthermore, he emphasized that he is aware that things could have turned out far worse for him.

“I have one statement that can change everything. My statement is it could be worse,” claimed Shaq.

He continued by stating that he might have been one of the 70% of athletes who have nothing post-retirement. He emphasized once again that it’s not about fame or money, but about being happy, living in the moment, and also helping other people in the community by enhancing their standard of living.

While most athletes go broke post-retirement, Shaquille O’Neal continues to make huge strides

As per a 2009 study by Sports Illustrated, 60% of athletes go broke within five years of bidding adieu to their sport. However, Shaquille O’Neal made sure to be a cut above the rest and not be a part of that bunch.

READ MORE: “My Mother Needs Me, My Brother…”: Fear Turned NBA Star Shaquille O’Neal into a Millionaire Businessman

Following his retirement from the NBA in 2o11, the big man has continued to add to his wealth through his investments. Just like he dominated the NBA hardwood, he has been replicating that dominance in the franchise world as well.

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Shaq owns stakes in several food chains, including Papa John’s, Krispy Kreme, Five Guys, and Auntie Anne’s. He also has a good grasp of the other side of the coin, since he is the owner of the Big Chicken restaurant chain. In addition to that, he is also said to have owned 40 24-Hour Fitness gyms and 150 car washes.

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However, this is not the end. The NBA legend has invested in a number of other companies that have contributed to his success. This speaks volumes about Shaquille O’Neal’s dominance in the business world.