'I Would Like To Be Addressed As Professor O’Neal': Shaquille O’Neal Bares Plan To Apply As Professor In ASU

Shaquille O’Neal, despite having a stacked NBA schedule then, graduated with a bachelor’s degree in 2000 in general studies with a minor in political science. He also earned an MBA at Pheonix in 2005 and a doctorate in human resource development at Barry in 2012.

Despite O’Neal’s wishes to teach at Alabama State, the university’s Director of University Relations, Ken Mullinax, stated that their administration is unaware of any discussions with the LA Lakers legend.

With his educational background, Shaquille O’Neal has also efficiently used his studies in the business world, where he had multiple ventures. Notably, Reebok assigned him as their president of basketball in 2023.

Whether O’Neal will continue pursuing a teaching role is yet to be seen.

Shaquille O’Neal opens up on helping HBCUs

During May 6’s episode of “The Big Podcast with Shaq,” Shaquille O’Neal expressed his connection to historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and how they played a vital role in his educational journey.

Shaquille O’Neal shared his insight amidst his ongoing efforts to support HBCUs.

“I always supported. It was an HBCU that helped me graduate from LSU. A lot of people don’t know the story, but I had to transfer to Southern for summer school. So it, I mean, I’ve always been a big supporter,” O’Neal said.

“Going there, the flavor, the feeling—like, sometimes I sit and I say, ‘Man, I wish I would’ve went to an HBCU. Because I went to the HBCU tournament when it was in Atlanta a couple weeks ago. And the DJs, the culture, the band, the cheerleaders—it’s just fun. And I’m a really big supporter of HBCUs.”

Shaquille O’Neal notably attended classes at Southern University, an HBCU, to complete his graduation requirements at LSU. He also supports other players like Stephen Curry and Trae Young in supporting their universities. Moreover, O’Neal has also displayed his love for HBCUs to his son, Shaqir, playing for the Florida A&M Rattlers.