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After Embracing Rivals Despite LSU Defeat, Shaquille O’Neal Returns With Renewed Vigor to Witness Alma Mater’s Victory

Published 11/12/2023, 12:14 AM EST

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As it turns out, no good deed goes unrewarded. Despite a heartbreaking loss in the season opener for LSU, its most famous alum was perfectly cordial. Rather than hold grudges, Shaquille O’Neal won hearts all over with a beautiful gesture. But, that did not diminish his support for his alma mater. A week later, back to support his team in full force, Shaq’s support led the way to a remarkable victory for the Tigers.

Like the Los Angeles Lakers legend, his alma mater was able to come through in the fourth. It would appear that O’Neal’s heartwarming gesture did have an impact.

Shaquille O’Neal cheers on, as Louisiana State finds victory

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Due to a spectacular performance from QB Jayden Daniels, the Tigers were able to pull out an impressive victory. While the expectation was for the #18 team to handle the unranked Florida Gators, the reality was much closer.

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A back-and-forth encounter had Florida pull within 3 with a little less than 11 minutes left in the encounter. Despite a spectacular 85-yard rushing touchdown by Jayden and another 51-yarder, the game was very much in the balance. But, ultimately, LSU was able to pull through.

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Thanks to 2 touchdowns in the 4th, the team was able to pull ahead to 52-35, clinching victory. Though, the story before the game was the arrival of the team’s former alum. In full support of the team, Shaquille O’Neal was ready to take in the action, even embracing head coach Brian Kelly. That moment, as captured by the team’s social media had a simple banner. “Shaq is back”.

Even though the day began with an O’Neal sighting, it was Daniels who got all the headlines. Thanks to a historic performance that Kelly claimed cemented Jayden’s Heisman Trophy honors, he compiled 8 total touchdowns and close to 500 scrimmage yards.

 

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Well, it seems like having the homegrown hero worked wonders for the team.

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After a loss to Alabama, the team rebounded in a big way. Next week, they’re in for another winnable match against Georgia State. But, between then, O’Neal might have to bring some of his luck to the basketball side as well.

Shaquille O’Neal’s disappointing, yet classy, return

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Making his return to his old hunting ground to support the women’s side, the Miami Heat legend was in for a rude awakening.

Instead of Angel Reese and Co. capitalizing on last season’s Championship momentum, the team had to endure a blowout loss to the Colorado Buffaloes. But, it was the kind gesture from Shaquille O’Neal that caught everyone’s heart.

Rather than hold grudges, the 4-time NBA Champion made his way to the Buffs locker room, celebrating and giving them kind words of advice.

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It seems his gesture of goodwill was overseen by the sports gods. With LSU returning to its winning ways, how far can the luck of Shaq carry them?

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Written by:

Priyanshu

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My earliest memories of a connection to basketball was through its popularity in my school. Eventually, that gave way to a genuine passion for the sport and the rest, is history. Whether it be gameplay, the tactics, the narratives, or the sheer art on display, the game speaks to me in a way few other things can.
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Edited by:

Aakash Nair