Standing at 7’1″, Shaquille O’Neal might be a giant in stature, but beneath it all, he has a gentle heart. Despite his busy career, the ‘Big Aristotle’ has always prioritized his family, ensuring he spends time with his kids. He once even stopped his son, Shareef O’Neal, from moving far away to Australia. Just as he’s larger than life, O’Neal extends the same love to his Godson, helping him out whenever possible. But while his famous Godson appreciates the love, there’s one thing he refuses to accept.

In a recent interview, the 4x NBA Champ’s Godson, the famous American rapper Cory Gunz, revealed some lesser-known details about Shaq. He shared how the NBA legend has often stepped in to offer assistance, though Cory has always declined, choosing instead to build his career independently. “Shout out to my Godfather man,” he said.

He further added, “It’s been plenty times and plenty things and plenty conversations I had with him when he’s like ‘Yo! I’m about to just take over, step in, and take over this whole situation’ like what we doing and I’m like ‘Yo! Let me?’” 

The rapper also mentioned that Shaq is like a father figure to him, and the two discussed how O’Neal is one of the few NBA players known for their successful rap career. It’s unclear how long Shaq has known Cory’s father, but the two have collaborated through music.

Back in 1998, they worked together on a hip-hop track, which may have been how O’Neal became Cory’s Godfather. Shaq must be a proud father figure, especially since Shareef recently revealed that the NBA legend had asked him for help.

Shareef O’Neal detailed Shaquille O’Neal’s one request from him

O’Neal wasn’t convinced about having his son live so far away in Australia for his career. More importantly, he needed someone reliable to take on the responsibility of his work at Reebok, as he was looking for help to rebuild the brand.

He expressed this concern to Shareef over Thanksgiving. On the other hand, Shareef was eager for a fresh start by playing basketball in Australia. However, O’Neal had a different idea. He asked Shareef to pause his plans in Australia and join Reebok to help him. “He’s like, ‘Can you do me a favor this year? Can you help me rebrand Reebok? I’ll let you help redesign the shoes… redesign the clothes and help sign players. I really need your help,” Shareef said about the Los Angeles Lakers legend.

While Shareef will likely return to his passion after a year. He had willingly joined Reebok and even expressed gratitude to his father for letting him contribute. O’Neal’s children are all grown, strong, and independent. As a proud father, he now leans on them for big responsibilities such as this one.

Stay tuned for more such updates and join us for the exciting second episode of the “Dual Threat Show” as our host BG12 sits down with Georgia Bulldogs star and Mountain West All-Freshman Team Selection, Asia Avinger