Shaquille O’Neal is one of the richest and most influential sports personalities in the world today. But obviously, it wasn’t always like that. Shaq grew without many privileges he’s gotten accustomed to as a basketball player. It was difficult going, but he always had the support of his parents. At an early age of 12-13, Shaq saw Dr. J for the first time in an arena with his dad. He knew what he was going to do with his life — play basketball.

Shaq’s father was always strict, but he knew his boy had talent to reach whatever heights he made the jump for. Shaq’s father was a drill sergeant, and he learnt the importance of discipline pretty early in his life. He may not be his real father, but as a stepfather, he did a tremendous job inspiring Shaq to believe in himself. Shaq’s father and coach always had words of praise for the big man.

Shaq wasn’t always as dominant as he was on the court in his playing days. He was always down to earth and was never a bully. His character right now is proof of how humble he is and how he must have been during his childhood. Shaq is often unfazed by most things and he has been like that ever since his childhood.

Also read: Shaq’s father inspired him to start playing basketball.

Shaquille O’Neal reveals the bullying incident which did not affect him one bit

On the recent episode of The Big Podcast with Shaq, Shaq revealed how it was in his high school. He revealed that his school had bullies who liked to mess with students and they once messed with Shaq as well.

Shaq said, “I’m from New Jersey. I was raised by a drill sergeant. There ain’t nothing you can say or do to me that’s gonna hurt my feelings. You can talk about my mamma, you can talk about my daddy. You ain’t gonna hurt my feelings. If I get mad, I’m going to react, in a way you ain’t gonna like it. So let’s go to high school — I pull up there’s a black scarecrow hanging from a tree with my jersey on it. So now I’m already mad. But listen I know the psychology. I know they trying to scare me. My dad down there. He sees it he’s going off, he look he said — I got your back.”

WATCH THIS STORY: Shaq’s illustrious career.

Even when now he practically has everything, you probably wouldn’t see a more humble and down-to-earth millionaire who is as popular as Shaq. His upbringing is part of the reason everyone loves Shaq.