Shaquille O'Neal: Scared straight, spending $1m in a day and motivating Kobe Bryant | Full Interview

By popular demand, our full sit-down interview with Shaquille O'Neal is now available.
Graham sat down with the 15-time NBA All-Star and four-time NBA champion in 2015. The former MVP discussed growing up poor, his inspirations to achieve greatness and a Knicks game that changed his life. Shaq also shed light on how he motivated Kobe Bryant and the biggest regrets of his career.
0:00 Insecurities and Getting Bullied In School
3:35 Growing Up Poor
6:18 Father’s Influence
12:30 Playing High School Basketball
15:00 Excessive Spending
18:56 Shaq and Kobe Bryant's Dynamic Relationship
25:53 Impact of former coach Phil Jackson
30:42 Biggest Regrets
32:32 Dwayne Wade Chemistry
35:53 Charity/Giving Back
39:53 Business Ventures
44:27 Business Regrets
47:05 SWAT Team Interest
51:20 Degrees and Education
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[@MrCityslickerktm]

Shaq's first sneaker contract was with Reebok in the early 90's. They cost $100.00. Rather than renew the contract, he instead partnered with Walmart and created a signature shoe that cost all of $30.00 because he wanted kids to be able to afford them. Walmart has reportedly sold over 150 million pair since 1998.

[@bigb6879]

that is why a father is very important.

[@nathanurick8320]

Why can’t all rich sports players be like this man.

[@itdon8302]

This guy interview level is MVP caliber.

[@grominwithrob1339]

Imagine trying to feed a kid the size of Shaq. Mom is the real MVP for real.

[@lady4recovery]

I raised my boy on my own he is now 28 6’7 and has had a size 18 shoe since he was in high school. Feeding him was no joke, he would he a huge meal and an hour later he would complain he was sick of being hungry, it was crazy.

[@jayes12]

As great of a man as Shaq is, I would not want to take his pizza from him.

[@paulacraig4984]

Happy to hear he gives credit to the step father that raised him 🎉

[@joshuahyman3612]

Best man in sports. A role model for everyone. To be that big, strong, rich and famous and stay humble and charitable is proof he was raised right and others should emulate him.

[@andyrichardiancu4880]

Facts !!!

[@stoicr9400]

Freemason phony

[@ericamezcua1109]

He was horrible father never there

[@bettycalame9583]

❤😂

[@coreythompsonTheOneandOnly]

Gods best soldiers come in all shapes and sizes

[@darrelbutler1996]

Shout out to Shaquille, step dad! He did an awesome job!!!

[@michelecaron]

I grew up with Shaquille. Momma, Grandma,and stepdad. I will always love and respect this big man. One of the best personalities, intelligence, kind hearted…I truly love him.

[@michelecaron]

Someday we can go on a long weekend 🎉celebrating our successes. The best man ever ❤

[@louisiovine9155]

Shaquille is the absolute real deal so genuine .

[@monicasmith7050]

My Dad was the best dad in the world...but Shaq's Step-Dad was also WONDERFUL!

[@tracyculver9998]

You’re the best SHAQ and very humble

[@marvellaharbin877]

Jesus 🤗

[@johnhanshe7921]

Shaquille is what a man should be. One of the people I respect . A great human being.

[@MrUltraworld]

I got to meet Shaq just after he arrived in Orlando, and he struck me as a really nice and respectful young man. I have never heard a bad word about this guy. His parents raised him well.

[@ShitWrangler]

He's a freemason which is a satanist

[@RebeccaVise-sq6fv]

Shaquille O'NEAL is in my opinion one of many who speaks truth, exemplifies strength as a man of his words. If only we could have him and many other strong black men in the Whitehouse. Our country is be transformed inside out. We're being destroyed by evil doers, men and woman who believes in a bigger government and less the people. Shaq for president. Lol we love Shaq he's a real man.

[@gwenlong1992]

Shaq's got my vote 100%

[@79steelymatt]

A giant man with a giant heart an incredible person and an iconic athlete if this man doesn’t motivate you to be a better person then you may not have much hope

[@eukat3ch]

spot on, just a gentle heart..

[@haymaker4956]

I was stationed in Germany when he was drafted. I followed him through his career. I’ve heard that he was a great guy and over the years with his generosity he has proven it.

[@userSTAR3330]

SHAQUILLE IS AWESOME. HE HAD A GREAT MOTHER. HIS STEPFATHER WAS LIKE A REAL FATHER. HIS REAL FATHER ABANDONED HIM. BUT HIS STEPFATHER WAS A PHENOM.

[@anthonybaldwin4626]

Our fathers made us the best man in life that we could ever be. You are indeed a good man sir.

[@petervang8127]

You can tell Graham is actually a fan of Shaq/basketball from his subtle laughs and focus.

[@lookingback5889]

Can’t stop crying! What an incredible human being. I love Shaquille!!!! The most humble celebrity I’ve ever known of. Raised right. Beautiful soul. I wish I can meet him in person and give him a huge hug! 💜💜

[@johnniejones6463]

Me too❤

[@userSTAR3330]

HE ALSO HAVE A FANTASTIC MOTHER. N STEPFATHER. 🙏🏾✍🏾✝️✝️✝️

[@logicsetsyoufree9052]

Get in therapy man geez

[@pattyforrest933]

l❤lZzzzzx

[@gwenlong1992]

Me too

[@flippindocks8183]

Best quote ever... He told his kids "WE aren't rich. I am rich. If you don't go to college, you get NOTHING from me."

[@toute1940]

The way he talks about his step father. Pure love!

[@Ronald-hx6zn]

My Mother,God rest her soul was living near Orlando. My Momma used to talk how much she saw good in her Shaq. If Momma saw good in anyone it was "gold". She would be so happy watching this interview because even though she never met you. You were a winner.

[@markderuyter696]

What a great interview. Reading the comments, apparently everyone loves Shaq as much as I do. Wish I could be a friend to him.

[@bethbaldoni8310]

The more I gather about Shaq the more I respect him! His humility and insights about his life is inspiring.

[@Laniece4u2]

Love the transparency and how he turned his life around for greatness!! Kids take note. You don’t have to payback with murder when you’re bullied. Way to go Shaq, Mom and Dad!! I love the way Shaq let that interviewer know. Love it.. don’t put words in my mouth for a lack of a better word!!!🥰

[@douglasdickenson6810]

One of the very few universally loved people on the planet.

[@paulherrera6537]

i always love how he talks about his dad

[@kiki30312]

And his mom…

[@TraciDomino-pj5vi]

Shaq is a kill of a good guy he helps a lot of people

[@Austin-nn6xt]

Shaq spent 5yrs. to get his phd to only be referred to as Dr. one time lol…….I’m all seriousness I love this man!

[@SueProv]

Ok. My dentist as a kid was Dr Schack. Pronounced like Shaq. So I'd I ever met Shaq, I would have met 2 doctor Shaqs. That's crazy

[@doomaphotos]

Shaq is a class act his parents raised him well

[@johnnyappleseed2058]

What a wonderful man! He is so humble and kind hearted it is impossible ❤️ not to love him!

[@donnahague8983]

I would love to meet him… he seems like such a genuine good person… there is a high school kid here in Michigan who was having issues finding shoes big enough for his feet and Shaquille sent him some of his shoes…. he loves his mom and grandma… he’s handsome…. He gives back to communities… I can’t even imagine being able to just sit down and talk to him. He’s the real deal… I would genuinely love to have him over for dinner and just talk to him…

[@Shanko12]

Shaquille is giant body with pure heart... love your kindness

[@irawardofficial]

Wow, what a story! Good interview Graham!

[@joseposada7839]

Shaquille you're the best person in the whole entire world. You have a heart of gold. You have my blessings.

[@davidmellish3295]

Not being American i don't really know much about American sports,basketball, baseball, American football, hockey etc So didn't really know much about Shaq but thankstk KZbin ive seen so many videos on the man and he's my favourite celebrity by miles. Now i know lots of rich people do stuff for charity but Shaq takes it to a different level. Walking round the street he helps out as many people as possible, he's never forgotten where he comes from and he GENUINELY cares about the people. He's always doing stuff for others,one of the best humans out there. He doesn't do it for any other reason except that he wants to help,he has so much and he loves to share. Shaq,one of the most generous, genuine, humble people about,he has my 100% respect ❤

[@robertdwilliamsjr4781]

This man would have been the most loved and respected sheriff. Best man in any sport there was in history . You are the biggest inspiration in the world

[@marieazrak1951]

When he said his dad struggled and couldn’t afford to buy Christmas presents for everybody in the family. My mom and dad go through the same thing. My dad was an engineer, software engineer. He works from home now he started some business.

[@scotthayes1210]

Shaq is an amazing human being. It's a testment to his parents. A humanitarian with a big heart. A true jekyll and hyde. Shaq the ball player was the most dominant and feared player I've ever watched. Shaq the man is a true hero

[@D.Frasure]

They would try and foul him before his dunk under the goal and sometimes would carry the guy up to the goal with with all that power. I really like the Shaq always have and still do, good guy.

[@LuckyNikitaBoba]

WTF! Amazing human being after beating a kid until he got a seizure? Really.

[@matzrat5006]

What an inspiration.

[@user-bf1um1tp5t]

Im 40 and grew up watching him play and his movies and such. As an adult i hear and see him taking care of others and strangers . I like him . Congrats Dr Oneil in your success

[@aaacars1297]

❤❤Love you shaq!! Big hearted big man ! Way to give back to others.

[@hicktown1992]

This is what honoring your mother and father can do for you!

[@mattiewilliams416]

I ❤you Shaquille O’Neal you’re one handsome and humble and loving kind man!!! I thank God for you!!!

[@samuelsanchez6180]

Great player, great human being. My favorite player.

[@rosehowze189]

Shaq has a heart of GOLD. my lifelong dream is to meet him. Just to be in his presence. ❤

[@photographyinflight4183]

Gotta respect a guy who turned it around, praise God.

[@sandrafeaginupton9706]

On my bucket list I want to meet this man. He is one awesome humble and beautiful man

[@mosesmartinez4364]

SHAQ AMAZING HUMAN BEING GOD BLESS HIM

[@blingazzvlogs4699]

Shaq is literally Superman 🏆🔥🙏🏾👏🏾

[@TomHuston43]

Shaq is a "virtual" superman.😎

[@jonnaborosky8836]

I love the fact that his mother made him read the dictionary while he was in time-outs. I love his personal motivation, too. I love that he loves to learn and I love that when he wants respect, he goes out and earns the foundation for it.. educational degrees. He's an inspiration in so many ways, and especially in listening to those with authority over him, in order to become the best Shaq he can be. Much love and respect to him and his parents, and wife and children.

[@77magicbus]

Great interview. I never followed Shaq's career too closely. Great man who is humble and very compassionate. Great to see his success.

[@dynacoman7363]

A great motivational speaker.. who learned from people who believe in him.. and from his own experiences... how to achieve true success. Wish I had Shaq for a teacher in school.

[@castorchua]

bit of a bullshitter too tho

[@johngarcia3960]

Shaq is awesome, big heart,,his kindness for poor people that struggle in life, he makes a big difference in changing familys n people lives,,he is a wonderful person

[@debraescano2744]

Long live the Shaq!!!!!!! Great Man!!! ❤❤❤❤😊😊😊😊

[@Bcco1968]

Wow made me cry what an impressive man. He is so honest and his parents were his turning point! Wow

[@MelloThatDude]

Shaq has always been a great human. Giving,caring and motivational. He's extremely giving and just a wonderful human. I appreciate this man to the fullest. What a man.

[@roseoverstreet9483]

Praise the Lord, Father make it known to him, to us, lift us up, & keep us lifted in Jesus's Blood. Rose

[@roseoverstreet9483]

AMEN,

[@susanmuriellittle]

I love listening to this man he speaks from the hart its a pity that there aren't more people like him, and he's got a heart of gold

[@SJSharx]

Graham, you are one of the best interviewers and probably why you find out things of the famous no one knows. This should be required watching not just by young black boys, but ALL children.

[@rachfayee]

It seems like Dr.O'Neal has an incredibly intelligent and motivating mother. Thank you for sharing this interview Graham!

[@lamarw2700]

I love your interviews. You ask a question and let them talk. I love Shaq too. His Atlanta home is about a 10 minute ride from my house and he does so much for this county and community. I urge kids and even adults to follow his footsteps. It's never too late. Im 52 today and I'm going to make changes to my own lifestyle. God bless 💪🤘

[@robinb6996]

I love Shaq! What a great man and so humble

[@Monkeysuncle123]

Good man, good father, and good all around human being!!!! What a wonderful intelligent man he is!!! Go Shaq, n God Bless you brother!!!

[@sandyfriloux3553]

I’ve have genuine respect for Shaquille. I’ve been a fan for many years. Much love and respect for this hero!

[@RobertMS1979]

Shaq is awesome. I remember when he first came into the league and didn’t really know who he was till after the nba. Watching his interviews and the rolls he played in movies.

[@debraescano2744]

What a wonderful story!!!!! Your a great insperstion to us all!!! It's a great honor watching this! God Bless You!!

[@murphyr31]

I just admire Shaq so much, much love to you big guy. Your a National Treasure Shaq.

[@TonioToutBeau]

Amazing interview, the best I ever seen with Dr O'neil.

[@user-ex3zf7rh1r]

The man. Period.

[@1ewalks]

Excellent interview Graham! Well done 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

[@jjmoore1043]

Absolutely a great interview!

[@infectedmonkey4827]

50:36 😂😂❤Dude America loves ya Shaq!! I still remember my pullover Orlando starter jacket 😅. Legendary human🎉❤!

[@RichardRatner.1972]

Shaw is ALWAYS a pleasure to listen to. Big love, kindest regards, Richard U.K

[@laurastevenson2785]

I Love you dearly, Shaquille O’Neal, only because I always believed that you are a beautiful, amazing, Blessed, Loving and caring person, I always wanted to be in your presence so you could bend down and give you a big hug and smile. I am a 73 old woman and I know I will never meet you, and I will continue to pray for your wonderful journey wherever it may lead you. God Bless you Love.🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾❤️❤️❤️🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾❤️❤️❤️

[@DJ-tb4ni]

Shaq you’re a wonderful, blessed man don’t change a thing ❤ I lost my son this year, and I listened to you and thought about all the trouble he got into. It was just him and me and I miss him dearly. You made me think of him, and I had to smile, thank you for that. I like to say, I was gifted to have a son, a Child, and I was blessed to have him as my best friend! R.I.P. Jake Sikes💔 I hope to meet you some day, just to say; “Your an awesome soul and a wonderful man”!🙏🏽👱🏻‍♀️

[@dukenpam]

Love this man. A truly wonderful human being.

[@mynameismyname5124]

Shaq's voice is literally Anastasia, I just woke up like, what happened? I wasn't even sleepy. 😂😂😂

[@user-yk8ps1wv9y]

Much respect for this gentleman

[@rhondab.washington6655]

Shaquille O'Neil You are so Loved , such an inspiration to so many ! Just Looking at all these positive comments, bearing heart felt, well wishes toward you! It's so amazing 👏 and you are so deserving of it all. We all absolutely love watching all of your interviews, and I'm sure we all could just listen to you talk for hours. I really hope you know how much you are Loved , by so many ! God bless you, dear Sir. 🙏

[@55scooterdude]

I met Shaquille in FL he was a gentle giant and a nice guy!

[@cornellhoward3757]

Shaq, spending 1,000.000 dollars in a day outside of meals; he spent the rest on someone else and they probably were strangers, go Shaq!

[@allanbergano1982]

Great talk Dr O'Neal. Thanks for sharing.

[@julesjohnson]

This story made me cry. Shit! A lot of us must learn to be more thankful and grateful for what we have; as small as it may be.

[@liatloulay]

I love Shaq! He is special

[@stephengiese7549]

Honest and very revealing! What a turnaround! Tough younger life! He is very greatful to all the people who was helpful to him along the way. His is very proud of his family! He expects them to excel always.

[@jefffarmer5785]

I just LOVE Shaq O'Neil-!!!!!!! What a guy... 😆😁👍

[@joslynvincent5592]

You are a Blessing to Others U have a Great Heart Lovely may Angels what over you and your Family Love you Son Blessings.

[@fightingirish8631]

I ADMIRE THE HELL out of you for being honest Shaq! Owning who you were and how you evolved and recognizing that you are the sum of it all. AWESOME Dude! I swam with you at Ocean Club PI, Bahamas a couple years ago... I now wish I would have asked to shake your hand. Atta' Boy!

[@beengoated6215]

This interview made you a dub in my eyes as a man forever Shaq.

[@scottgordon1721]

Dr. O'Neal is someone we can all look up to in so many ways.

[@melflewis]

Cuz he’s tall And smart😂

[@pollywelch631]

Tears watching 😅Shaquille.Amazing man. You are a great role model for our young people.😅 thank you for your courage and perseverance.enjoyed this interview so much.

[@robh063]

When was this interview done because I've heard these stories Shaq tells before and he talked about Kobe like he was still with us.

[@charliec5339]

2015. The full interview wasn't on YT before now, only segments

[@robh063]

@@charliec5339 Thanks! I figured it had to be a while ago.

[@ricmightybonefeliciano9800]

Fantastic interview

[@ImgoneButUrstillHere]

Shaq's the best!!

[@lilytea3]

0:00: 😢 Shaq shares his experiences of being teased and bullied growing up, as well as the tough times his family faced. 4:52: 🏠 X talks about his motivation to succeed and make a better life for his grandmother, who believed in him. 9:37: 🏀 A young basketball player learns to overcome criticism and finds success with the help of a college coach. 15:02: 💸 Former NBA player talks about his early financial mistakes and extravagant spending. 19:01: 🏀 Shaq discusses his relationship with Kobe Bryant, their success as a duo, and their eventual separation. 24:04: 🏀 Shaq discusses his relationship with Kobe Bryant, his career, and his time playing under Phil Jackson. 29:08: 🏀 Shaq discusses his philosophy on practice and his desire to be recognized as the most dominant player. 33:58: 💙 The speaker shares personal stories about his experiences with his team and his father's influence on his charitable work. 39:08: 👑 Shaq's motivation is not money, but having fun, being in partnership with others, and being a role model to his children. 43:57: 👥 Shaq discusses his business goals, regrets, and interests in law enforcement. 48:57: ✨ Shaquille O'Neal discusses his love for challenges, his experience in the SWAT team, and his pursuit of higher education. 53:42: 💼 The speaker is proud to be both a successful entrepreneur and a doctor, and wants to build a law firm in Orlando. Recap by Tammy AI

[@user-rx8rv1oy4b]

i have admired Shaquille O'Neal since I seen his high school all-star game he represented the West and his first touch of the ball he took it Coast to Coast and finished with a stuff he appeared to be overwhelmed with his postgame interview to very authentic today and he is one of the public figures that I quote and tell my friends how he just made me laugh with his antics and he has been my friend 34 years

[@marlenescales5420]

Best man in sports ever!! Very talented and kind. God bless you Shaq much love from Ohio

[@LawrenceAugust_]

Shaq is a one of one. Love this guy.

[@markstaff7053]

Nobody knows Shaq making these comments? Ask his ex-wife who Shaq is? The guy cheated on her more in a week than he has Chips? 100% fact

[@LawrenceAugust_]

@@markstaff7053 And? He's human and he's paid the price (lost his wife). This happens. The good he's done for people - charity and giving back to the community - has FAR outweighed the bad. 100% fact.

[@sprintNburgh]

Wow Shaq is outstanding