Shaq Net Worth 2024: How to Make Millions from Baskets to Beats

Most people know Shaquille O’Neal (better known as Shaq) as the American former NBA star and one of the greatest centers of all time. But, the 7 foot-1 inch, 325 pound player has always been more than a basketball player.

In fact, he is one of the most prolific actors in TV advertising.

Those who have ever watched cable TV in the West have likely seen him in multiple commercials for all kinds of products. He is quite the endorser and entrepreneur, and a lot of his net worth is sourced from his business ventures and investments.

Today, Shaq’s net worth is set at around $400 million.

Basketball was a platform that propelled the Shaq we all know today – and oh, how great was he when he played! Today, most of Shaq’s net worth of $400 million comes from his business endeavors and the multiyear TV deal he signed with Warner Bros. Discovery Sports.

Shaq’s Net Worth Breakdown:

Shaquille O’Neal’s net worth is made up of money accumulated from his time as an NBA superstar along with the commercial work he did during and since that time including in the entertainment industry.

While the full details of the wealth of Shaquille O’Neal aren’t accessible, we’ve pulled together everything we do know to break it down for you, here:

Latest News & Updates about Shaq

1. Viral Photo Controversy: Shaquille O’Neal became involved in a viral photo incident when an Instagram model, Maria Ozuna Teachey, shared a suggestive picture with a man who looked like Shaq. While the picture led to speculation about a new romance, O’Neal dismissed the rumors playfully, posting on social media, “Nope, not the kid.” He further responded to the gossip by sharing a video where he joked about his “girlfriend,” keeping the tone light and humorous.
2. FTX Lawsuit: Shaq has also been embroiled in legal troubles connected to the collapse of cryptocurrency exchange FTX. In 2024, he was finally served with a lawsuit linked to the scandal after reportedly evading legal papers for several months. This lawsuit has added to the controversies surrounding his post-NBA career​.
3. DJ Diesel Tour: Despite the controversies, O’Neal has been active in his entertainment career. He continues to tour as DJ Diesel, performing at events worldwide. His presence as a DJ has gained a large following, and he often merges his love for music with his larger-than-life persona on stage.
4. Acting Ventures: In addition to his entertainment work, Shaq was recently spotted filming scenes for the third season of the mob drama Gravesend. His involvement in the series has generated excitement, further showing how O’Neal continues to explore opportunities beyond sports​.

10 Fun Facts about Shaquille O’Neal

1. Military Brat: Shaq’s stepfather was an Army sergeant, leading to frequent relocations during his childhood.
2. Rap Artist: He released a platinum-certified rap album, “Shaq Diesel,” in 1993.
3. Movie Star: Shaq starred in movies like “Kazaam” and “Steel” during his basketball career.
4. Car Collector: His collection includes luxury cars like Rolls-Royce Phantom and Lamborghini Gallardo.
5. Wrestling Cameo: Shaq made appearances in professional wrestling, including with Hulk Hogan in 1994.
6. Tech Investor: Early investments in Apple and Google proved highly profitable.
7. Philanthropist: Donated $1 million to Hurricane Katrina relief efforts.
8. Real Estate: His 35,000-square-foot Isleworth mansion in Florida sold for $16.5 million in 2021.
9. DJ Diesel: He pursued a career as a DJ and released the single “Bang Your Head” in 2023.
10. Podcast Host: Shaq hosts his own podcast, engaging with fans and sharing insights from his diverse career.

Early Life

Shaquille O’Neal was born on March 6, 1972, in Newark, New Jersey.

His parents are Lucille O’Neal and his biological father, Joe Toney. Toney was imprisoned for drug possession when Shaq was only a baby, and when he was released from jail, he handed over his parental rights to Shaq’s stepfather, Phillip Arthur Harrison. Harrison worked as an Army sergeant.

Later in life, Shaquille O’Neal would go on to create a rap album called ‘Shaq Fu’ The Return’ (1994), where he shared his disdain for his biological father, saying “Phil is my father”. The song’s name is “Biological Didn’t Bother” and is dedicated to Philip Arthur Harrison.

He sings:

He took me from a boy to a man so Phil is my father
Cause my biological didn’t bother

During his childhood, O’Neal honed his basketball skills at the Boys and Girls Club in Newark, although he didn’t participate in any formal teams at that time. Due to Harrison’s military service, the family had to relocate multiple times, living in both Texas and Germany.

When he was in high school, O’Neal joined the basketball team. In just a few years, he led San Antonio’s Robert G. Cole High School team to the state championship.

He continued his basketball journey with the Louisiana State University team, earning the title of two-time All-American Player of the Year and two-time SEC Player of the Year. In 1991, he clinched the Adolph Rupp Trophy for the NCAA men’s basketball player.

His professional career kicked off after the Orlando Magic drafted him in 1992, and was named All-Star and Rookie of the Year in the same year.

After getting his Master’s from the University of Phoenix, O’Neal enrolled in a doctoral program at Barry University. He completed this course mainly online and got his doctoral degree in Education.

In 2002, Shaq married Shaunie Nelson. The couple has four children together: Amirah, Shareef, Me’arah, and Shaquir. Shareef O’Neal is a professional basketball player who plays for Ignite in the NBA G League.

In 2009, Shaunie and Shaq divorced due to “irreconcilable differences”.

The Career and Ventures of Shaquille O’Neal

Shaq was a giant on the basketball court but even in his early days, he had a knack for business. Today, a massive portion of his net worth comes from investments and endorsements. Let’s take a look at how Shaq’s net worth was built over the years.

Shaquille O’Neal as a Professional Basketball Player

The beginnings of Shaq’s success were in basketball. His NBA career started in 1992 and in just a few years, the whole world knew of Shaquille O’Neal.

Shaq’s Beginnings as a Professional Basketball Player

In 1992, the Orlando Magic drafted O’Neal with the first overall pick in the NBA draft. He made history when he became the first to be named Player of the Week during his FIRST week on the team. He also won the NBA Rookie of the Year award later on.

He remained with the Orlando Magic until the 1995 season. In his second season with the Magic, Shaq helped the team get to their first playoff series. One year later, they made it to the finals.

During the 1995-96 season, O’Neal was injured, but his team had a good season. In the playoffs, they won the first round and lost to Chicago Bulls, Michael Jordan’s team.

In 1996, Shaq joined the US Olympic basketball team. That same year, the team won the Olympic gold medal.

Following this accomplishment, Shaquille O’Neal signed a seven-year contract with the Los Angeles Lakers.

The Contract with the Los Angeles Lakers

The period that cemented Shaq’s legacy was his time with the Los Angeles Lakers. He spent seven years between 1996 to 2004 playing for the LA Lakers and won three consecutive championships with the team from 2000 and 2002.

The Los Angeles Lakers signed a deal with Shaquille O’Neal worth $121 million over seven years.

This choice led to one of the greatest player pairings in basketball history. Shaq played alongside Kobe Bryant when he was just a teenager on the same team. Although their early years with the Los Angeles Lakers weren’t very successful, the hiring of Phil Jackson, the former Chicago Bulls coach, put them on the right track.

The Los Angeles Lakers won the NBA championship title for two years in a row.

Shaq’s Time in the Miami Heat Team

In 2004, O’Neal joined the Miami Heat team. He signed a 5-year contract with the Miami Heat to play with them. A year after the contract started, the team beat the Dallas Mavericks and won their first-ever title at the NBA finals.

This was Shaq O’Neal’s fourth NBA championship title.

Remaining Stints

After leaving Miami Heat, Shaquille O’Neal was traded to the Phoenix Suns. He spent a year there before he was traded once again.

He didn’t make any long-term contracts from this point forward. His career counted several one-year stints, including his time with the Cleveland Cavaliers and his final season with the Boston Celtics.

According to Spotrac, Shaq made about $286 million during his basketball career. In 2011, he retired from the NBA and his basketball career though he still shows up as a commentator or guest on various basketball-related shows and programs.

Shaq’s Brand Endorsements and TV Appearances

If you don’t follow basketball, you likely know Shaq from his many, many TV commercial appearances. Shaquille O’Neal’s net worth is primarily sourced from his endorsements and business investments, and only a minor portion of it is from his basketball career.

Endorsements

Off the basketball court, Shaq has been a marketing king. He has endorsed many products and brands throughout his career in the NBA. His endorsements earned Shaq more than his salary in the NBA teams.

He’s become a force in the endorsement industry and has endorsed everything from junk food to sports equipment and car insurance companies. Some of the most notable deals include Pepsi, Reebook, Buick, and Icy Hot.

Today, Shaq is the president of Reebok’s basketball operations.

The retired American basketball player still earns millions from endorsements and business ventures every year, estimated at around $60 million per year.

Here is what he says in his interview with Gary Vee:

How much money you make, how many companies you own, who cares. How can I help you sir? How can I help you, ma’am? How can I help the little kid? Because it is people like this who made me who I am today. I would question, and I would see other inspiring stories… I am inspired by people who are smarter than me.

TV Appearances

Shaq became a big star from the very start of his NBA career, but he also dabbled in other industries, including the film, rap, and DJ industries. He appeared in the following movies and TV shows, among others:

• “Blue Chips” in 1994
• “Kazaam” in 1996
• “Steel” in 1997
• “Uncle Drew” in 2018
• “Show Dogs” in 2018
• “Curb Your Enthusiasm” in 2001
• “Grown Ups 2” in 2023

He became a rapper in 1993 with the release of his first rap album “Shaq Diesel” – and it was a huge success. “Shaq Diesel” became a certified platinum, so Shaq kept using the name DIESEL to produce more music. “Shaq Fu: Da Return” became a certified gold.

He also worked as a DJ and in 2023 and released the first single from his debut album “Bang Your Head” as DJ Diesel.

Throughout his career, Shaq has also been featured in video games and even starred in multiple reality series.

He’s worked as a commentator on NBA games and had a short stint in professional wrestling. One of his most notable wrestling appearances was in 1994 when he accompanied Hulk Hogan to the ring in the WCW Bash at the Beach.

In 2009, he was a nominee for Raw Guest Host of the Year during the Slammy Awards but lost to Bob Barker.

Today, he hosts his own podcast.

Charity Work

Shaquille O’Neal’s philanthropic endeavors have solidified his reputation as a generous benefactor, and his legacy is synonymous with his significant contributions to various charitable causes. Some of his most notable philanthropic activities include:

• The Shaquille O’Neal Foundation: Shaq created this foundation in 1992. The Shaquille O’Neal Foundation is still active, helping youth programs, health initiatives, and education in underdeveloped countries and communities that need it.
• Boys and Girls Clubs of America partnership: Shaq has a long-standing partnership with the club. He’s invested a lot of money in the organization and he lends them his voice as a spokesperson.
• Shaq-A-Claus: Every year, the Shaq-A-Claus initiative joins the Marine Toys for Tots foundation and delivers gifts to children in need.
• Make-A-Wish Foundation partnership: Shaq has also partnered with the Make-A-Wish Foundation for many years now.
• Hurricane Katrina Relief: Shaq donated $1 million to Hurricane Katrina Relief efforts.

Shaq’s Biggest and Most Profitable Investments

Business Ventures and Investments

Shaq started investing while still playing in the NBA. One of his first investments was in a car wash. In his book “Shaq Uncut”, he shared a story about this investment, telling the readers that his accountant freaked out about $250,000 of profit missing from the car wash. He flew to Orlando to talk about this issue with Shaq, only to learn that Shaq kept quarters in wooden barrels in his bedroom.

Shaq shared:

It took me a while, but I finally came clean with him. I showed Lester my bedroom, where there were a whole bunch of wooden rain barrels — full of quarters.

Lester said, ‘Shaquille, what the hell is this? Is this the missing money?’ ‘Yes,’ I admitted. ‘Lester, I can’t help it. I like seeing my money. Come here, run your fingers through all these quarters. It’s awesome!’

Over the years, and especially after his retirement, Shaq has secured millions from investing in different businesses and ventures. Shaq’s investments are very versatile, and he’s never been shy about his passion for investing in businesses.

At one point, Shaquille O’Neal owned over 150 Five Guys restaurants, which made up 10% of the company’s complete portfolio. He also joined the board of directors at Papa John’s and became one of the leading brand ambassadors of the business.

He invested $840,000 of his net worth to purchase 30% of a Papa John’s franchise in Atlanta. The contract with the company is worth about $8.5 million, though this could change based on the stock value. Papa John’s agreed to give O’Neal 87,136 shares of stock between 2020 and 2022.

Other restaurants Shaq has invested in are Krispy Kreme (Atlanta), Big Chicken Restaurants, and Auntie Anne’s Pretzels. So far, he’s sold his holdings in Five Guys and Auntie Anne’s Pretzels.

Shaq has also invested in car washes and gyms, and held a significant share in Ring, the doorbell company that was sold to Amazon for $1 billion in 2018. He has owned over 150 car washes and over 40 fitness centers, though it’s unclear how many of these are still under his ownership.

He also made early investments in Apple and Google, two of his best financial decisions.

His minority stake in the Sacramento Kings that he purchased in 2013 was also a profitable investment, but he sold it in 2002. He spent $5 million for a 1% stake in the NBA team but sold his stake to become the primary endorser of WynnBet, an online gambling company. When he sold his Sacramento Kings stake, it was worth about $11 million.

Car and Bike Collection

Shaquille O’Neal has a very valuable car collection, too. He’s demonstrated an affinity for luxury cars for years now, so here are some of the vehicles that were or are part of his collection:

• Lamborghini Gallardo 2007
• Rolls-Royce Phantom with a Superman emblem
• Ford F-650
• Rolls-Royce Cullinan

In addition to cars, Shaq invests in motorcycles. His selection of two-wheeled machines includes:

• Can-Am Spyder RS-S 2013
• Harley Davidson Softail Deluxe
• Harley Davidson Road Glide
• Confederate X132 Hellcat limited edition

Real Estate

Shaquille O’Neal has owned impressive homes over the years, some of which he still owns today.

His most famous property is the Isleworth mansion located in Windermere, Florida. He bought the land and custom-built a dream mansion on it. The house is spread over 35,000 square feet and has a 6,000-square-foot indoor basketball court. He bought it for $3.95 million in 1993 and sold it for $16.5 million in 2021.

In 2018, he bought a $1.8 million property in Bell Canyon, California. He also owns a Mount Dora estate in Florida that he bought for an unknown amount.

His smaller property in Windermere was worth $235,000 in 2012. Shaq owns a downtown Atlanta penthouse that he bought in 2019 for $1.5 million.

In 2021, he bought a home in Las Vegas for $1.95 million.

What Can We Learn From Shaq’s Success?

Shaquille O’Neal has had a remarkable journey from a big presence on the basketball court to a multifaceted business investor and endorser.

His commitment to improvement and his relentless work ethic is a true inspiration for all of us.

Shaq is the epitome of perseverance and determination and shows us that, in life, you can achieve everything you set your mind to. Even if your success in one field comes to an end, that doesn’t mean you can’t be successful elsewhere as long as you put in the effort required.

His “rags to riches” story demonstrates that, if you use your skillset and strengths and are courageous enough to explore new horizons, limitations can only exist in the mindset.