Despite Being “Polar Opposites”, Shaquille O’Neal Inspires Kirk Cousins to Pursue an Academic Degree

Kirk Cousins is calling an audible on his future. On ‘The Big Podcast with Shaq,‘ the Atlanta Falcons’ new QB opened up about his next big play after football. Taking a page from Shaq’s playbook, Cousins is eyeing an MBA or a law degree to beef up his business defense.

In the pocket with Shaq, Cousins dropped back and delivered a bombshell. “That’s the anti-Kirk,” he said, “but Shaq’s my inspiration.” He’s looking to tackle the books just like Shaq did, making sure he’s the main man calling the shots in his financial huddle. “That’s why I may go when I’m done playing I may try to go to law school or get an MBA because I kind of think similarly so we’re opposites and we have some similarities,” Cousins gushed.

While Shaq might snap up mansions without breaking a sweat, Cousins is still on his way to achieving such greatness. But don’t let that fool you; this quarterback’s got a game plan that goes way beyond the gridiron.

Meanwhile, Kirk Cousins’ leap to the Atlanta Falcons is more than just a roster update; it’s a strategic move that’s set the NFL buzzin’. The former Viking, who’s been in the game for 12 seasons, inked a deal that’s got everyone talking. With a hefty $180 million for four years and a playbook full of experience, Cousins is the new field general for the Falcons.

And it’s not just about the benjamins; this quarterback’s got grit. Despite a rough tackle by injury last season, he’s ready to launch a comeback and take the Falcons to new heights. The team’s betting big on Cousins, and the fans are all geared up to see if this play turns into a touchdown.

This unexpected mentorship highlights a shared respect for knowledge and personal growth. As Cousins contemplates law school or an MBA, he’s not just planning his next play – he’s strategizing for life after football.

The intellectual playbook that Shaq offers to Kirk Cousins

When Shaquille O’Neal sat down in business meetings, he noticed a disconcerting trend: conversations were directed at his advisors, not him. Determined to change this dynamic, O’Neal embarked on a mission to earn his MBA, a decision that inspired. Kirk. O’Neal’s pursuit of higher education was a strategic move to command respect and solidify his role as a businessman, not just an athlete.

O’Neal’s journey from the basketball court to the business boardroom is nothing short of inspiring. Faced with the scary statistic that about more than 70% of NBA athletes face financial instability within five years of retirement, Shaq took control of his destiny. He pursued an MBA from the University of Phoenix, not just online, but in a classroom setting. This move wasn’t just about adding another accolade to his name; it was about understanding the language of business and becoming a true decision-maker in his ventures.

Read More: The Real Reason Shaquille O’Neal Threw Away His 1996 Olympic Gold Medal

He learned the importance of joint ventures, understanding that his athletic fame could open doors, but it was his business savvy that would keep them open. This approach to entrepreneurship resonated with Cousins, who saw in O’Neal a blueprint for life after football.

As Cousins settles into his new role with the Falcons, he carries with him the wisdom imparted by O’Neal. It’s a reminder that success in the field is fleeting, but the knowledge gained through education lasts a lifetime. For both O’Neal and Cousins, their pursuits are not just about securing financial stability but about setting an example for future generations that education and sports can, indeed, go hand in hand.

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