Why Shaq Keeps His Distance From Nba Stars: 'They’Re A–Holes'

Shaq's Celebrity Stance: Why He Avoids NBA Stars

Shaquille O'Neal is keeping his distance from fellow NBA stars and he's not shy about sharing why. At 54, the iconic four-time NBA champion has decided to step away from the celebrity limelight, and he's got some choice words for his former peers. "I denounced myself from being a celebrity about 10 years ago because those people are weird. I’m not weird," Shaq candidly told The New York Post.

Despite his towering presence in the sports world, Shaq insists he's more about the simple life these days. When visiting places like the tech superstore tm:rw in New York, where he's a partner and investor, Shaq prefers to keep it low-key and rides solo with just two guys. "No entourage," he emphasizes, adding, "We come in here, we take care of business … We sign autographs. We treat people with honor and respect … I want to be a regular guy."

“I don’t like athletes or superstars because they’re a–holes,” Shaq admitted.

Remembering Kobe and Pushing Business Education

Though Shaq has distanced himself from the superstar scene, he holds onto cherished memories from his time with the Los Angeles Lakers, especially those with the late Kobe Bryant. He fondly recalls their dynamic duo as "the greatest one-two punch ever."

Today, he's more focused on education and encouraging young athletes to follow suit. Having earned a PhD from Barry University in 2012, Shaq is now pursuing his fourth degree, a master’s in liberal arts, to set a precedent for his six kids and inspire younger fans. "I thought about sports psychology," he shared, "but it was a little too much for me, the psychology field."

Shaq’s Take on Viral Rumors

Recently, Shaq found himself in the spotlight again, responding to a viral NSFW rumor tied to fake screenshots of something he allegedly direct messaged to singer Sabrina Carpenter. Shaq is no stranger to the buzz, but he usually prefers to keep his interactions as authentic as possible, whether in business or on social media.