Shaquille O'Neal'S Texting Blackout: Why Nba Stars Are Off His Contact List

Breaking Away from the NBA Crowd

Shaquille O'Neal, the legendary former Los Angeles Lakers powerhouse, is doing things his way. In a candid chat with the New York Post, he revealed why he's ditched texting with fellow NBA stars. "None. I don’t like athletes or superstars because they’re a--holes," he bluntly shared. O'Neal's decision to cut ties isn't just about distancing himself from the celebrity scene – it's about embracing a more grounded lifestyle.

“I denounced myself from being a celebrity about 10 years ago because those people are weird. I’m not weird,” O'Neal remarked.

The basketball icon is all about keeping it real. When he shows up, it's just him and a couple of buddies, no flashy entourage in sight. "We take care of business… we sign autographs. We treat people with honor and respect. I want to be a regular guy," he explained.

Speaking Out and Standing Firm

O'Neal isn't just walking away from the glitz – he's also using his platform to speak out. Last October, he didn't mince words when expressing his disappointment in NBA figures like head coach Chauncey Billups and others for their involvement in a gambling scandal. "There’s an old saying in the ‘hood: ‘All money ain’t good money,’" he said, emphasizing the importance of integrity over quick cash.

These comments are part of a broader narrative where O'Neal has never shied from calling out what he sees as unacceptable behavior, even if it involves those he once knew well.

Education Over Fame

Now, Shaq's eyes are set on higher learning. The 54-year-old is pursuing a master’s in liberal arts, adding yet another degree to his impressive collection. "I thought about sports psychology, but it was a little too much for me," he admitted.

For O'Neal, education is about more than personal growth – it's a message to his six children and fans. "So I want my children and those that follow me to say, ‘OK, he’s educated. Maybe I should do it,'" he noted. Shaq's journey is a testament to the power of reinvention and staying true to oneself, beyond the allure of fame and fortune.