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NBA icon and Hall of Famer Shaquille O’Neal often catches the spotlight for weaving exaggerated details into his stories. However, Shaq assures fans there’s always a purpose behind his tall tales. A recent anecdote involving renowned bike builder Jesse James perfectly encapsulates this habit.
On the show ‘In Depth with Graham Bensinger’, Jesse playfully accused Shaq of embellishing the cost of a custom bike James had built for him. According to Jesse, Shaq claimed he shelled out $155,000 for the cycle, but the actual price tag was a more modest $55,000.
Shaq's Generosity Boosts Brand
With his trademark charisma, O’Neal responded, “Jesse, I aimed to boost your brand. I set a higher price bar for future clients by saying I paid a hundred grand. It wasn’t about me but getting you the recognition and profit you deserve.
You know my love for you runs deep”. It’s well-known that O’Neal, throughout his NBA journey and beyond, has had a penchant for custom vehicles that mirror his colossal stature and larger-than-life personality.
Over 19 illustrious years in the NBA, Shaq donned the jerseys of six franchises - from Orlando Magic and LA Lakers to stints with the Miami Heat, Phoenix Suns, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Boston Celtics. During his LA chapter, he clinched three consecutive NBA titles between 2000 and 2002 and secured another championship with the Heat in 2006.
While Shaquille’s current TV persona brims humorously, NBA analyst Colin Cowherd reminds fans of the athlete’s legendary court prowess. Cowherd, discussing the top NBA players of the past two decades, remarked, “The Kobe-Shaq era was historic.
A force of nature on the court, Shaq’s contributions to the NBA are undeniable, with achievements like a four-time NBA champion title, three-time finals MVP, regular-season MVP, and 15-time NBA All-Star appearances, to name a few”.
Post his basketball career, O’Neal transitioned to television, lending his expertise to the Sports Emmy-awarded show, ‘Inside the NBA.’ Here, he seamlessly blends entertainment with in-depth basketball insights, continuing his legacy as an NBA legend and beloved media personality.
