“Calls Me All the Time”: Grateful Angel Reese Admits Special Bond With Shaquille O’Neal

The impact of Shaquille O’Neal on the life of Angel Reese has been massive. From escorting her on her senior day to standing up for her when she is being trolled, Shaq has been a true ‘father figure’ for the 3x All-American. On countless occasions, Reese has reflected on their special bond publicly. A similar episode appeared in Reese’s recent introductory press conference.

Angel Reese’s opening media address for the Chicago Sky headlined in many ways. One of its segments was obviously a dive into the relationship the ferocious forward has with the 4× NBA champion. Reese cleared the curiosity of the media personnel regarding the mentorship advice Shaq extended to her after she was drafted.

Reese said,” He congratulated me after I got drafted, of course. He’s been super inspirational to me. He talked to me when he went to the league as a rookie. Just being able to go in and just try to dominate.”

This is not the first time the 21-year-old has appreciated the influence of O’Neal on her career. Earlier, Reese pointed out that one of the major reasons for her association with Reebok is because of the close ties she has with the 3× NBA Finals MVP. She exhibited this point and further added, “Being able to be with Reebok has always been great for me too. I would look forward to just continuing that with him.”

Finally, she also shared the fact the line of communication is always open between them. Reese expressed, “He calls me all the time.” Similarly, Shaquille O’Neal also acknowledges Reese outside the basketball court.

Shaquille O’Neal admits to being a mentor to Angel Reese

Being a lottery pick himself in the 1992 NBA Draft, the 15× NBA All-Star opened up about his reactions to being an inspiration to Angel Reese. In an interview with People magazine, O’Neal said, “I am described as Angel’s understandable ear. I know things that she went through, I know what she’s going through, I know what’s about to happen to her and I could give her advice. She’s the same age as my children, so I only want the best for her.” 

These two are setting some major uncle-niece goals. However, Shaq has proven on multiple occasions why Reese considers him more of a fatherly figure. The appealing thing for the fans now will be to notice how he guides her in her professional career.