Shaquille O’Neal Gets Real About His Sergeant Father Loving Him Dearly but Not Showing It

Apart from being one of the best basketball players ever, NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal is always an incredibly kind person. Undoubtedly, his humility comes from his roots. Shaq had a very humble childhood and his stepfather played a very important part in shaping who he is today.

In his popular podcast, Shaq talks about a host of topics from around the world. In the latest episode of the podcast, Shaq gets emotional about his sergeant stepfather who raised him to the incredibly successful person he is today.

Shaquille O’Neal gets emotional regarding his father

Be it NBA rings or an MVP award, Shaquille O’Neal has won it all. He is often regarded as one of the best centers to play in the league. Moreover, he changed the complexity of the game by bringing physicality into the league. Apart from his exploits on the court, Shaq’s off-court activities make him more famous. One of his biggest traits is being kind and charitable, and he never forgets to give back to society.

In the latest episode of The Big Shaq Podcast, Shaquille O’Neal talks about his father and gets emotional. Shaq says, “He [Shaq’s father] used to discipline me and I’m glad he did because it’s the reason why I’m here today… He passed away around 8, 9, 10 years ago but I’ve never told him thank you enough. He wasn’t mushy. Like, Bro, you don’t have to tell me you love me, I know you love me”

Shaq grew up under the strict care of Phillip Harrison, his stepfather, and his upbringing set the tone for his life. His father ensured Shaq always stays focused on the game and he eventually made sure Shaq becomes one of the all-time greats.

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Safe to say, Shaquille O’Neal took some valuable lessons from his father. Moreover, he has interesting methods of raising his 6 children, which make people respect him even more.

How is Shaq as a father?

Shaquille O’Neal knows the value of education and it is the most important thing for him. Despite having a huge net worth, Shaq makes sure he does not give his money to his children easily.

In order to get any of Shaq’s riches, his kids need to fulfill certain criteria. They need to have 3 degrees! Shaquille O’Neal revealed this interesting parenting method of his during an appearance on Good Morning America.

He said, “My motto is ‘you have to get three degrees to touch some of my cheese.’”

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What is your favorite memory of Shaquille O’Neal? Let us know in the comments down below.