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“Try to Diffuse the Situation”: Shaquille O’Neal Opens Up on the Tough Conversation He’s Had with His Sons Over Police Brutality

Published 06/04/2020, 1:23 PM EDT

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The recent events in the United States, post the death of George Floyd, has posed serious questions on systematic oppression and discrimination. Protesters are increasing by the day and the whole country is standing up to racial injustice. Former Lakers legend, Shaquille O’Neal spoke at length on this issue.

The NBA Hall of Famer was on Jimmy Kimmel Live on Tuesday night show. The legend had some advice for his sons in any interaction with the police in the future. “I have to talk with them (sons) all the time,” Shaq told Kimmel.

“I tell them first of all, you have to try to diffuse the situation by showing respect because you have to understand these people are also out here to do all their jobs…”

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Shaquille O’Neal has tips for his son in case of any encounter with the policemen

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Shaq stresses on diffusing the situation beforehand to avoid any unfavorable consequences and also expressing respect to their occupation. But if things get out of order, Shaq says he’s there for them.

“And if it happens to get rough, don’t say anything, don’t do anything, just comply. And when all said and done you call me and if stuff gets out of hand, then I will handle it… I don’t want you to act crazy while you are there by yourself,” O’Neal added. “So I just try to tell them, just comply or just listen. But a lot of times that doesn’t work either.”

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He repeated that no matter the situation the policeman places them in, they must show respect.

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Well, the protests and justice rallies are raising questions on the police officer. There have been huge debates in the last few dates on racism in the country. The NBA is shaken by the news and many players have spoken up about the same. The likes of LeBron James, Stephen Jackson, and Carmelo Anthony are taking this up on many occasions.

Recently, Warriors star, Stephen Curry, was seen in a rally supporting the cause. And here, Shaq has a few tips for his sons in case of any encounter with the policemen.

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Written by:

Pavni Ahuja

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