NBA icon Shaquille O’Neal recently spoke with PEOPLE on April 18 regarding former LSU standout Angel Reese. In the interview, Shaq shared his sentiments about Reese after she was chosen by the Chicago Sky in the 2024 WNBA Draft. “The first thing I told her is I was proud of her,” Shaq conveyed. He further elaborated that he aims to avoid micromanaging individuals.
He claims to be cautious when using language and to steer clear of making demands, opting instead to remark, “I’m happy for you.” I’m happy for you. Call me if you need anything,” Skyler Caruso of PEOPLE stated.
The story also mentions how, in the last year, Shaq has developed a strong relationship with Reese and served as a mentor to her.
“I am referred to as Angel’s comprehensible listener,” Shaq said to PEOPLE. I could provide her guidance because I am aware of the experiences she has had and the difficulties she is going through.
Although Shaq and Reese were both LSU students, Shaq’s fondness for the “Chi Barbie” goes beyond that.
Regarding Reese, he continued, “She’s the same age as my children, so I only want the best for her.”
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Shaq and Angel Reese Are Business Partners
These two LSU superstars have a financial benefit to their friendship.
Shaq was named the new president of Reebok’s basketball division on October 12.
Reebok CEO Todd Krinsky said CBS News, “We are thrilled to be expanding upon our partnership with Shaquille with this historic appointment.” “This guy is the best person to take over and lead our brand back to regaining its rightful place and dominance in basketball,” the statement reads. “His deep-rooted history with Reebok and the reigning influence he’s made on the game.”
According to Boardroom, Shaq stated, “For my first appointment in this role, it had to be the GOAT,” after Reese signed her NIL deal in October. Angel Reese is the only player having a greater influence on the game at the moment.
According to Boardroom’s Nick DePaula, Reese stated, “I am honored to be working closely with one of my longtime mentors, Shaq, along with a brand that I have admired since I was just a little kid.” “Their trust in me to carry on their legacy for a new generation means the world to me.”
Shaq signed Reese to a multi-year endorsement contract as his first task in his new role with Reebok.
Angel Reese’s Jersey Is Already Sold Out
Reese’s arrival in Chicago has stirred up excitement beyond just Shaq. Fanatics wasted no time in offering Reese’s Sky jersey for sale immediately after her selection by Chicago on April 15. Demand was so high that the jerseys sold out shortly after 3 p.m. ET on April 20. Reese herself expressed her enthusiasm about the jersey sales via X on April 21.
my jersey already being sold is crazy 🥺i love yalllll
— Angel Reese (@Reese10Angel) April 21, 2024
“my jersey already being sold is crazy i love yalllll” Reese wrote.
The Sky’s regular season kicks off on May 15, with a match against the Dallas Wings. Chicago’s inaugural home game is scheduled for May 25, when they take on the Connecticut Sun.
Reese will undoubtedly spot plenty of her jerseys in the stadium for both games.