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Shaquille O’Neal Gets Brutal About Why He’s Not A Role Model: “I’m A Real Model, What You See Is What You Get”

Published 01/20/2022, 7:30 AM EST

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Shaquille O’Neal is one of the greatest players of all time and one of the best centers to ever grace the game. He has won multiple championships and individual awards in his illustrious career. He was an integral part of the Lakers dynasty, which won three championships in a row along with fellow superstar Kobe Bryant.

The 16-year-old veteran was a monster in the post and he had incredible strength and athleticism. He is also known for smashing backboards just with his sheer power. NBA players, especially centers, would have nightmares when they guarded Shaq and they would hope to not get caught in a poster.

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Shaq is also one of the funniest characters in the NBA. He has a humorous personality, and he stays true to himself at all times. He is also a devoted father to six children. Shaq is also known for being a prominent businessman and philanthropist. He has made incredible donations to charity, and he recently was an executive producer for the documentary for Lusia Harris.

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Shaquille O’Neal says he is a ‘real model’

Shaq was recently on an episode of the Jordan Harbinger Show. He talked about various things, including his upbringing, the times we’re in, his relationship with Kobe, his parenting style, and much more. He was also asked if he views himself as a role model.

via Getty

When asked how he doesn’t let fame and game interfere with personal life, Shaq says” It is what it is. What you see is what you get.  A lot of people use the word role model. To me, it’s you’re playing a role, right?”

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“I’m a real model. What you see is what you get. You know I don’t want to be one of those guys that acts a certain way when the cameras are on and marketing team is around and then get behind closed doors and do because that is how one day you get caught and people will realize you’re a fraud and be all over. It has happened.”

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Shaq’s authentic nature is one of the many reasons that fans have gravitated towards him in a meaningful capacity. The NBA community has grown accustomed to his affable and sincere nature and his personality carries over during his time in the broadcast booth.

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Written by:

Vishwesha Kumar

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Vishwesha Kumar is an NBA writer at EssentiallySports. Holder of a Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, Vishwesha has been writing content for about 3 years now. He has been following the NBA for nearly 10 years, since first starting off in the year 2012.
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