About former LSU standout Angel Reese, NBA veteran Shaquille O’Neal spoke with PEOPLE on April 18. What Shaq told Reese after the Chicago Sky selected her in the 2024 WNBA Draft was disclosed in the report that followed.
Shaq remarked, “I was proud of her from the very beginning.”
Shaq stated that he never attempts to “micromanage people.”
He claims that instead of making demands, he uses precise wording and says, “I’m happy for you.” I’m pleased with you. The PEOPLE’s Skyler Caruso wrote, “You call me if you need anything.”
According to the publication, Shaq has developed a strong relationship with Reese over the past year and has taken on the role of mentor to her.
Shaq told PEOPLE, “I am referred to as Angel’s comprehensible ear.” “I could offer her advice because I am aware of the experiences she has had, the struggles she is facing, and the impending events.”
Shaq has a soft spot for the “Chi Barbie” for reasons more than just the fact that Reese and he both attended LSU.
Regarding Reese, he continued, “I only want the best for her because she’s the same age as my children.”
Angel Reese and Shaq Are Partners in Business
These two legendary LSU alumni have a profitable partnership. Shaq’s appointment as the new president of Reebok’s basketball division was revealed on October 12.
Todd Krinsky, CEO of Reebok, stated, “We are thrilled to be expanding upon our partnership with Shaquille with this historic appointment,” according to CBS news. “He is the most qualified individual to take the reins and guide our brand back to regaining its rightful position and dominance in basketball, given his extensive history with Reebok and his profound impact on the sport.”
Signing Reese to a multi-year endorsement contract was Shaq’s first task as the new Reebok employee.
Shaq reportedly stated, as reported by Boardroom, that Reese’s NIL deal had to be the greatest of all time for it to be his first nomination to the position. Right now, Angel is the only player having a greater influence on the game.
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.”
The jersey for Angel Reese is already sold out.
Not just Shaq is looking forward to seeing Reese in Chicago.
Soon after Chicago selected Reese on April 15, fans began selling her Sky jersey. On April 20, shortly after 3 p.m. ET, they sold out. On April 21, Reese expressed her joy with the shirt sales via X. “It’s crazy that my jersey is already sold out; I adore you all” Composed by Reese.
The Sky take against the Dallas Wings on May 15 to kick off the regular season. On May 25, Chicago will host its inaugural home game versus the Connecticut Sun. For both games, Reese will undoubtedly see a lot of her jerseys in the stadium.
