Shaquille O’Neal, towering at 7-foot-1, is revered not just as a dominant NBA player but also as a savvy businessman. Since his retirement in 2011, he has transitioned into the business world, proving that his impact reaches beyond the basketball court.
In a recent Netflix series, “Power Moves with Shaquille O’Neal,” he shared that his approach to business combines “80% humor and 20% seriousness.” He emphasizes that while he enjoys infusing fun into his ventures, he also takes his responsibilities seriously, having faced attempts from some to exploit his jovial demeanor in his early business career.
O’Neal’s journey took him back to Reebok in 2023 as the president of basketball, aiming to reinvigorate the brand that originally took a chance on him three decades ago. With a clear vision, he intends to not only honor that legacy but also mentor a new generation of athletes. He has likened his approach to the way Reebok once supported rising stars like Allen Iverson, advocating for investments in emerging talent instead of relying solely on established superstars.
Under O’Neal’s leadership, Reebok focuses on athletes with strong social media presence and unique stories. A notable example is Angel Reese, a WNBA player, whom O’Neal believes embodies the game-changing spirit he seeks for Reebok.
O’Neal candidly reflects on his own experiences of being underestimated early in his career, which motivated him to pursue a degree in business to understand the industry better. His strategic decision-making as Reebok’s new head is not just about leveraging star power but also about building genuine connections with athletes and their communities.
Despite his extensive accolades, O’Neal recognizes the importance of teamwork and delegating responsibilities. He stresses learning from failures and surrounding himself with capable people, crediting his family and values for grounding him amidst his success.
O’Neal’s return to Reebok is a reunion filled with purpose—he aims to restore the brand’s identity while making meaningful connections with customers. This movement isn’t just professional; it’s personal, reflecting a desire to give back to the brand that once believed in him.
Shaquille O’Neal exemplifies the power of resilience, adaptability, and community engagement. His journey serves as an inspiring reminder that with the right mindset and support, individuals can overcome challenges and create transformative opportunities in their fields.