Earlier today, on his “The Big Podcast,” four-time NBA champion Shaquille O’Neal revealed an astonishing tale of a high-stakes bet that resulted in a luxury car exchange. Shaq, who notoriously made only one three-point shot in his entire 19-year NBA career, recounted how that rare three-pointer won him a Mercedes Maybach from a wealthy friend. The stakes? His Rolls-Royce Cullinan.
I need to see these clips of Adam vs Shaq in a 3pt contest š¤£@bigpodwithshaq | https://t.co/eMaynKSyIS pic.twitter.com/59YVtXc6ko
ā Playmaker (@playmaker) July 26, 2024
“I have never been really a gambler, but the biggest bet I had was I bet a guy one time, one of my rich friends, that I could get his Maybach if I hit a three. And if I missed the three, he could have my Cullinan,” Shaq shared.
For those familiar with Shaq’s career, the bet might seem absurd. Known for his dominance in the paint rather than his perimeter shooting, O’Neal’s single career three-pointer came during the 1995-96 season against the Milwaukee Bucks. Despite his notorious struggles with free throws, Shaq’s presence on the court was formidable. He became one of the most feared players in the league shortly after being drafted, cementing his legacy as one of the NBA’s most dominant players.
Shaquille O’Neal’s career is marked by numerous accolades and achievements. His ability to dominate the game through sheer physical presence and skill made him a household name. However, shooting three-pointers was never part of his repertoire. The lone three-point shot he made is a testament to the unpredictability and charm that surrounds his legacy.
Shaq’s story about winning a Maybach underscores the larger-than-life personality he has cultivated both on and off the court. It’s a narrative that highlights his playful yet competitive nature, an aspect that fans have come to adore.
Shaq’s betting stories don’t end with the Maybach. In another instance, former NBA player Jamal Crawford shared a humorous yet telling anecdote about betting with O’Neal. In March, during a regular season game between the Denver Nuggets and the Phoenix Suns, Crawford placed a bet with Shaq. Confident in his wager, Crawford bet $1,000 against every $10,000 by Shaq. O’Neal, always one to up the ante, bet a staggering million dollars that the Nuggets would win.
When the Suns triumphed, Shaq found himself on the losing end. True to his word, he decided to pay up in a manner only Shaquille O’Neal could. The next business day, he arrived with a box full of cash to settle the debt. As Crawford’s eyes lit up in astonishment, he soon realized the twist. O’Neal had brought “Shaq money” ā a playful jab indicating that while the amount was significant, it wasn’t “a million real dollars.”
Lmaooo Jamal Crawford was HOT when he saw Shaqās face on the bills š @NBAonTNT pic.twitter.com/DH7KNc5eQH
ā Tomer Azarly (@TomerAzarly) March 6, 2024
Stories like these provide a glimpse into Shaq’s multifaceted personality. While his on-court prowess is undisputed, his off-court antics show a man who is both larger-than-life and deeply human. His interactions, whether through bets or philanthropic efforts, reflect a person who understands the value of humor, generosity, and living life to the fullest.
It’s fascinating to observe how Shaquille O’Neal continues to captivate audiences. His legacy, built on more than just basketball, encompasses a unique blend of athleticism, charisma, and a genuine human touch. His stories remind us that even the greatest athletes have quirks and moments that endear them to fans beyond their professional achievements.
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