The story of Lucille O’Neal, the mom of NBA Legend Shaquille O’Neal, is one for the ages. She had sacrificed her education so that she could take care of her family. After her kids were settled and Shaq made it to the NBA, she took a loan from her son to complete her studies. Lucille got a bachelor’s, a master’s, and a Ph.D. in her name. Her dedication to her family and education should inspire everyone.

Shaq has said that it was his mom who made him complete his college degree. He says that because of her he got a master’s and a doctorate to his name. Even though Shaq bought in millions, she always used to hold him to his word that he would finish college. And Shaq lived up to it.

Lucille wasn’t fazed by the millions that Shaquille O’Neal bought home

The Orlando Magic drafted Shaq No 1 overall, and he quickly became one of the best players in the league. So endorsements and deals lined up for him and he used to bring in millions to his household. But this did not impress his parents, and they used to ask about his career.

Shaq says, “I would bring home a lot of money and all that, but I would look on my favorite person’s face, and she would put her hand on my shoulder and say, ‘Baby, you promised to go back to school. And I’m like, ‘I’m shooting a movie called Kazaam.’”

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His mom responded, “I saw that movie. You need to take your ass back to school.”

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On his parents’ insistence, Shaq went back to school and finished his education. Shaq would also go on to win four championships and become the most dominant player the league has ever seen. He was also voted into the Hall of Fame and the NBA 75 team. But the thing Shaq’s mom would be most proud of is that he kept his promise and finished his education.