Shaquille O’Neal seldom minces words when it comes to the basketball world or off-the-court issues. The big man’s inquisitive nature and achievements in a variety of fields have equipped him with knowledge and a clear perspective on the world.

O’Neal is well-known for his philanthropy and efforts toward the community. The Lakers legend is all about giving back to the world. This is evident in the extensive work done by Shaquille O’Neal’s foundation. His foundation aims to spread enthusiasm and make a difference in communities. Shaq and his foundation work relentlessly to build a better tomorrow for the youngsters.

Shaq also has the wonderful attribute of never discriminating against anyone. He has previously discussed racism and how he has avoided being affected by it. Interestingly, in his book “Shaq Talks Back,” the big man describes how growing up among people from various cultures gave him a unique perspective.

O’Neal wrote, “Because Phil (Phillip A. Harrison) was in the army, I was always moving around, trying to fit in with new kids and new cultures. In Newark, I was around black people my whole life. Bayonne, where I lived until I was about 9, was the first time I experienced being in classes with white kids, Indian kids, Puerto Rican kids. It gave me a whole new perspective on the world.”

Shaq then talks about how he never sees color in people. He believes that there are only two types of individuals: good and bad.

“I never disliked white people when I was young,” Shaq said. “And to this day, I was raised to believe there are two kinds of people in this world: good people and bad people.”

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O’Neal is a walking inspiration. His family has had an enormous role in molding him into the person he is today.

Shaquille O’Neal would not be the person he is today without his family’s teachings

Shaquille O’Neal had a tough childhood growing up. His biological father suffered from drug addiction while he was growing up in New Jersey. Shaq has harbored a lot of resentment toward his father throughout the years. Shaq regards Phillip A. Harrison, his stepfather, to be his real dad.

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Phil has been instrumental in shaping Shaq into the individual he is today. His stepfather instilled in him the values of discipline and dedication to anything that the big man pursues.

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His mother, Lucille O’Neal, also played a massive role. She gave birth to Shaq when she was only 17 years old. At the time, she was yet to marry Shaquille’s father. As a result, she faced a number of challenges, including poverty and addiction. But she made certain to instill all the right values in Shaq. His mother conquered her alcoholism and became tougher for her son.

She steered him in the right direction, kept him off the streets, and was by his side throughout the entire process.

Fair to say, without Phil and Lucille, Shaquille O’Neal wouldn’t have been the legendary figure he is today.