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Shaquille O’Neal Featured in Kevin Hart’s Career Announcement

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ankit K. | Last updated Jan 6, 2026 10:55 AM ET

Kevin Hart made headlines after unveiling a major business move that featured longtime friend and former NBA star Shaquille O’Neal.

Hart announced a new partnership with Authentic Brands Group, calling it a turning point in his career. The deal places Hart alongside global figures like O’Neal and David Beckham, who are already partners with the company.

Hart shared the news on Instagram, where he has 176 million followers, describing the moment as massive and thanking his inner circle. He praised Shaq and Beckham for leading the way and credited Michael Rubin as a mentor.

"This is a massive moment for me in my career… I am extremely thankful for my team. Joining @authentic is MAJOR!!!!! Shoutout to my brothers @shaq & @davidbeckham for leading the way and helping with this massive move!!!!! Our partnership will be game changing…. Major shoutout to @michaelrubin for just being a mentor and a brother!!!!! With that being said…. It’s time to get to work Let’s build something epic!!" Hart wrote in his Instagram caption.

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In his official statement, Hart said the move gives him the structure to grow his brand worldwide.

"I’ve spent years building businesses and creating opportunities, and joining Authentic gives me the platform and global infrastructure to take my brand to the next level," Hart said. "I want the Hart name to live on for generations to come and be something that my grandkids and their grandkids will be able to be proud of."

O’Neal responded with a simple but meaningful message. He posted a photo of himself laughing with Hart and wrote, “Welcome to the family.”

Authentic will now co-own and manage the Kevin Hart brand. Hart also becomes a shareholder in a company that oversees more than 50 brands and generates $32 billion in annual retail sales. The partnership aims to expand Hart’s reach across new markets, products, and platforms.

For Shaq, the move adds to an already massive post-NBA portfolio. He remains a media fixture and a savvy investor. Now, he welcomes Hart into a business circle built on ownership, scale, and long-term vision.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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