News Summary
Reports suggesting that Shaquille O’Neal would become a professor at Alabama State University have been denied by university officials. ASU’s director of university relations confirmed that O’Neal has no academic affiliation with the university. The rumors stemmed from O’Neal’s past comments on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and his personal experiences. While he admires HBCUs and supports athletic programs, especially through family ties, he is not pursuing any teaching role at ASU, underscoring the importance of verifying such information.
Montgomery, AL – Recent reports suggesting that basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal plans to become a professor at Alabama State University (ASU) have been clarified as unfounded. Ken Mullinax, the director of university relations at ASU, confirmed that O’Neal has no current or future academic affiliation with the institution. This statement counters widespread rumors that O’Neal would leave his position as a host at TNT to teach mentorship and business administration courses at ASU.
According to university officials, no discussions have taken place regarding O’Neal’s involvement in any educational programs, and they lack knowledge of any connection he may have with the university. The speculation appears to have arisen from O’Neal’s previous comments regarding his appreciation for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and his personal experiences with them.
During an episode of The Big Podcast with Shaq, O’Neal mentioned that he participated in classes at Southern University, another HBCU, during the summer to meet graduation criteria from Louisiana State University (LSU), where he graduated in 2000 with a Bachelor of Arts in general studies and a minor in political science.
The background on O’Neal’s educational journey reflects a broader appreciation for HBCUs, as he often conveys how he admires their culture. He even expressed sentiments of wishing he had attended an HBCU himself. His connection to HBCUs has heightened through familial ties, particularly his son, Shaqir O’Neal, who initially committed to Texas Southern University. Shaqir’s aim was to help change perceptions surrounding HBCU basketball before transferring to Florida A&M University (FAMU) where he made a notable impact by recording a double-double in his collegiate debut.
O’Neal has shown enthusiastic support for various HBCU athletic programs. His attendance at events, such as the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) basketball tournament, alongside his commitment to actively support his son and former NBA teammate Mo Williams, who coaches at Jackson State University, has underscored his dedication to these institutions.
On a humorous note, O’Neal alluded to his eagerness to be called “Professor O’Neal” during public discussions, reflecting his lighthearted approach to education and mentorship. This interplay aligns with his consistent advocacy for mentoring young individuals, particularly in sports and academics.
Moreover, in a display of solidarity with the HBCU community, O’Neal was spotted wearing ASU gear during a public appearance, reinforcing his support for the university despite having no direct ties to it.
In summary, while Shaquille O’Neal enjoys widespread admiration and shares a profound appreciation for HBCUs, he currently has no role at Alabama State University as a professor or instructor. The claims regarding his potential academic pursuits appear to be misleading, illustrating the importance of verifying information before sharing. O’Neal’s ongoing interactions with the HBCU community, however, reflect his commitment to encouraging mentorship and providing guidance to aspiring young adults in their educational and athletic endeavors.
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