Shaquille O'Neal explains he'll only refuse a picture with a fan under one circumstance
Shaquille O'Neal has revealed that there's only one occasion when he's not happy to take a picture with a fan,
although kids always get a free pass.
There are fewer more recognisable athletes in the world than NBA legend Shaq. If nothing else you can't miss the man's over seven feet of height.
Since retiring in 2011 the former LA Lakers and Miami Heat star has worked very hard on his physique as well becoming absolutely shredded.
Advert
He's not just larger than life in build either with the 51-year-old often showing off his great character in interesting interviews and telling stories.
One such parable saw him spend $25,000 to pay for all the meals of his fellow diners when he was out on a date and it seems that he takes his food very seriously.
Indeed Shaq revealed that he would only ever turn a fan down to take a photo with him if he was in the middle of eating, as you can see in the video below.
Asked if he ever says no to talking pictures with fans, the five time NBA championship winner said: "When I’m eating but I never say not to a kid whether I’m eating or not.
"We, celebrities, we have a small niche where people know us, they love us. They want to see us, right?
"So I’m amazed that I haven’t played in 12 years, kids still know who I am.
"And again, it costs you nothing to be nice. So if you’re nice to me then I’m going to be nice to you."
On whether he's not in the mood to take pictures, Shaq added: "If I’m ever in a mood where I don’t wanna be bothered I won’t leave the house.
"I just Netflix, watch TV, but when I’m out. As you see I’m by myself all the time.
"So whenever a person approaches me and they’re nice, I am nice. And if they’re not nice then I’m not nice."
Topics: NBA, Basketball, LA Lakers
Ryan Sidle