Have you ever wondered, what if handball became an Olympics sport? Well, the Shaquille O’Neal of handball and the real Shaq are working towards making the handball fan’s dreams come true. Gauthier Mvumbi, the star of the 2021 World Men’s Handball Championship, recently talked about his encounter with basketball player O’Neal.

Post their encounter, the handball star revealed how O’Neal greeted him and discussed the sport’s future in the country.

Due to his nickname ‘Shaquille O’Neal of Handball’ Mvumbi gained during the World Cup, he got in touch with the real Shaq. The NBA legend was eager to meet the handball star for a very long time.

The two finally meet each other at a recent promotional event for New York City Handball Club. Recalling his meet with the champion, Mvumbi said, “What struck me was when I entered the bar: he got up to welcome me, gave me a hug, and said, ‘Finally, you kept your word. You came to see me. I’m happy.'”

Shaq’s warm welcome, and kind gesture, moved the handball player. He further added, “He likes me a lot, and me too. He sees me as his little brother.” A star-struck Mvumbi was in complete awe of the NBA icon.

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The two also plan to make handball huge in the States and promote the sport ahead of the 2021 Los Angeles Olympics. But led Mvumbi to such stardom?

Rise of Gauthier Mvumbi

During the 2021 World Handball World Cup, Mvumbi played as a pivot for the DR Congo team. Due to his 6’5″ height and 301lbs weight, Mvumbi was feared by the opposition’s defense. It was due to his appearance, the handballer received the title ‘Shaquille O’Neal of Handball’.

During this World Cup, Mvumbi scored 13 goals from 14 attempts, helping his team place 28th in the tournament. However, the handballer mentioned that more than on-field fame, Mvumbi received beyond the field limelight.

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Now both famous Shaqs have teamed up to make handball a well-known sport in the US. Do you think handball will soon become an Olympics sport? Let us know in the comments below.