Shaq teaches his children to be model and productive citizens

Basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal is imparting lessons in both sports and citizenship to his children, emphasizing the importance of being both productive and aware of their privileged status in the athletic community. In an exclusive interview with Us Weekly on September 18, the 51-year-old former NBA star elaborated on his aspirations for an “O’Neal Family Corporation,” established on principles of respectable nepotism.

“I want them to be educated model citizens who understand nepotism, the right kind of nepotism. Whether they play basketball or not doesn’t matter to me; I just want them to be happy and productive,” O’Neal said while promoting his association with Fantasy Labs Las Vegas.

O’Neal, a father to six children, has seen his son Shareef climb the ranks in the basketball world. Shareef recently transitioned from college basketball at the University of California, Los Angeles, to the NBA G League Ignite and even made an appearance for the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2022 NBA Summer League.

Regarding the inevitable comparisons between him and his son, O’Neal offered this advice: “Forget about me. Do the best you can, have fun, and just play.”

Despite his nearly two-decade-long career, which saw him play for several NBA teams like the Orlando Magic, Los Angeles Lakers, and Miami Heat, O’Neal insists he doesn’t want his children to emulate his path. “I had to make many sacrifices, especially towards them. While it’s fun when you’re winning, you miss out on a lot,” he said.

Contrary to the trend of celebrity families starring in reality TV shows, O’Neal expressed reservations about such a move for his family. “Our life is real and not scripted. We don’t fight or argue, so I don’t think people want that much positivity all the time,” he remarked.

For the time being, O’Neal is focusing on his role as Chief Fantasy Officer for Fantasy Labs Las Vegas, a venture offering exhibits that meld technology and art for a sensory experience. “It will elevate your mind and set it free. We offer great food and drinks. If you want to enhance your fantasies, come to Fantasy Labs,” O’Neal enthused.

The public can look forward to SHAQ’s Fantasy Lab, a new exhibit by Fantasy Lab Las Vegas, which is set to launch in October.