And O'Neal has said that when he dunks, it was the ire at his father that usually led to him wanting to tear the rim down. And if it wasnt for Shaq, Kobe wouldnt be the legend that he is today. . ONeals stepfather was a US Army officer stationed in Wildflecken, Germany, years earlier when ONeal was a kid. However, it would take one tragic event to show just how strong and magical his fathers impact actually was. O'Neal's No. O'Neal was a toddler when his birth father, Joseph Toney, was arrested for drug possession and forging checks. Although O'Neal had every reason to be mad with his biological father, he chose to see things differently. He is one of the greatest of all time and no one can take that away from him. Shaquille ONeal could not grow up around his biological father as he was sentenced to prison for drug possession. Harrison was the one who introduced ONeal to basketball, giving NBA fans a superstar. Shaq has said that while Harrison was not his real father, he doesn't believe in such things and has always perceived him to be his real father. Above all, Shaqs biggest gift to them is the same love and support he showers his six children. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. In the wake of the entire affair, O'Neal and Yao became pretty good friends. He is most remembered for his stints with the Miami Heat and the Los Angeles Lakers. However, childhood was not always easy for him, growing up without his biological father. For over a decade, Dr. McGraw has used the show's platform to make psychology accessible to the general public by addressing important personal and social issues. 1. Here on the Dr. Phil YouTube channel, you will find the best moments, highlights, and segments from the TV show. This is what Shaq had to say when he was asked to comment on it. As hes done so many times on the court, ONeal stepped up, using that as motivation to honor his memory in an unforgettable fashion. Shaq was rocked by tragedy when his father passed away. A little bit of time and a different perspective can change things, and the two have continually been in touch with each other since their lunch meeting. Shaquille O'Neal. All rights reserved. Apart from all of this Shaquille ONeals real father did not even try and reconnect with his family after he was done serving 6 years in prison for the charges against him. Shaq grew up to become one of the greatest big men of all time. Thanks to his father's discipline, training, and guiding hand, Shaq was able to evolve into one of the greatest big men to ever play the game. Born July 19, 1996, Taahirah O'Neal is the oldest of the O'Neal children. Harrison envisioned a style of play for ONeal, which utilized his gifts as a big man. As for Toney, he and his son were estranged for muchof his life, andthe pain of his absence wasmentioned in one of ONeals 90s rap songs. Shaq says that these two incidents motivated him to stay on course and helped to reach the NBA. Continue with Recommended Cookies. He is the son of Shaunie O'Neal and Shaquille O'Neal. . NBA Rising All-Stars Game 2023: Who Is Playing and Where to Watch? During an interview with the LA Times in the wake of Shaq's apology, Ming said: As it turns out, O'Neal's on-air apology wasn't the only one. Now, two decades away from his playing days in the yellow and purple, O'Neal thinks it would be a joke if the team made the postseason. Vin Diesel and Post Malone Onboard to Feature at the 2023 NBA All-Star Game, Is Giannis Antetokounmpo Playing Tonight Against the Bulls? Shaquille ONeal, who disliked his biological father, took 11 years to realize Philip Harrison was his stepfather, Shaquille ONeal, who missed over 5,000 free throws, disses himself while trying to flip a bottle, There is no loyalty in sports!: Shaquille ONeal had put the New England Patriots on blast after letting Tom Brady walk. Lets have a look at it who he is. Be the first one to comment on this story. Shaq said: Be the first one to comment on this story. Likewise, he talks about another tragic story that happened in Germany. 32 by the Miami Heat in 2016. Shaquille O'Neal meets children at the Henry County Boys and Girls Club in July 2022 after donating $1 million to the program. . After Shaquille O'Neal's father ripped into him for being disrespectful towards Yao Ming, Shaq apologized for potentially offending everyone. ONeal enrolled at LSU after graduating from high school and studied business there. A man he only found out he wasnt related to until he was 11 years old. He finished his career averaging 23.7 points, 10.9 rebounds and 2.3 blocks over 1,207 games. Shaquille Rashaun O'Neal was born on March 6, 1972 . Once he was out of jail, Toney reportedly tried to lead a reformed life. When he was out, his son and wife had moved to Germany. Lately,. Phillip Harrison forbade those efforts, and it remained that way until his death. NBA legend Shaquille O'Neal despised his biological father, Joseph Toney, for the longest time. Later, Toney made an effort. It was all me., She claims that although the player stated he didnt need to go into detail about what I was doing, he continued, I wasnt protecting her and upholding those vows.. According to Shaq, his father told him that he must show Ming more respect. ONeal spent some time in Germany as a kid after moving there with his new family. However, he didnt even know that his stepfather wasnt even his biological father until he was 11 years old. Fortunately, this story had a happy ending for everyone involved. Joe Toney is a great role model for fathers everywhere. Toney struggled with drug addiction and was imprisoned for drug possession when ONeal was an infant. I understand the circumstances It happens to a lot of men in America. Who Is Keith Appling, Former NBA Player Accused of Second Degree Murder? Philip Arthur Harrison, was not pleased with the incident. You can bet that looking back, Hall of Fame basketball behemoth Shaquille ONeal has many friends, coaches, and teammates to thank for his massive success. In the midst of Ming's rookie year, O'Neal earned quite a bit of criticism for his insensitive and racist remarks during an interview on cable TV. Philip Arthur Harrison took him to a New York Knicks vs. Philadelphia 76ers game, where he saw Dr. J drive baseline and dunk the ball. He is a father of six and according to Shaq, education should have the topmost priority above everything else. (picture credit- Twitter). 34 was retired by the LA Lakers in 2013 and No. Its clear that Shaq had a special bond with his father. A post shared by Shaqir O'Neal (@shaqironeall) At 18, Shaqir is Shaq's youngest son and one of the four children that he shares with ex Shaunie. Just 16 years old, and clearly given significant size thanks to Shaq being her father, she's putting it all together. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Shaquille O'Neal and his father had a very complicated relationship. As a self-confessed bully who frequently found himself in . Phil tells compelling stories about real people. So I always say you know what, no drugs for me.. Shareef O'Neal, son of Shaq, worked out for Lakers today. His friends had a few beers to drink, and they took the car, which resulted in them getting into an accident and losing their lives. Julius Randle Obliterates Trade Rumors Amid Rumored Roster Overhaul: A Part Of . However, three years after Phillip Harrisons death, ONeal was open to the idea of meeting his biological father after some persuasion from his mother. He brought ONeals focus back every time he swayed. Be the first one to comment on this story. He has been following the NBA for nearly 10 years, since first ONeal was an efficient player, shooting 58.2% from the field throughout his career. Past . Dr. Phil makes regular appearances on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel Live, and The Late Late Show with James Corden. After winning three straight championships, O'Neal made headlines for all the wrong reasons. 50 explained that he holds himself responsible for the breakdown of his marriage to Shaunie in 2009, who departed Shaq in 2009 after marrying him in 2002. Your login session has expired. The Big Decision Shaquille O'Neal Had to Make After His Dad Died Shaq was rocked by tragedy when his father passed away. Shaq says that his father stopped him from having an addiction. Although Shaquille O'Neal is incredibly media-trained, the hulking Hall of Famer has managed to land himself in hot water from time to time. Yao Ming not only accepted Shaquille O'Neal's apology, he even went a step further by chalking it up to cultural differences. However, he didn't even know that his stepfather wasn't even his biological father until he was 11 years old. Shaqs biological father Joseph Toney who is an ex-convict that served time for multiple felonies that involved drug charges and felonies related to the forging of checks was not a very big part of his childhood. "We grew up together, Shaquille and I," she told Sheinelle. Ill kill you. Ive never talked about this, and Im glad you guys asked because I dont mind talking about this, but I was bad, Shaq said. Shareef O'Neal participated in a pre-draft workout with the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday, but the eldest son of NBA legend Shaquille O'Neal revealed that his father "didn't want" his. Shaquille ONeal may have been the child of Joseph Toney, but he had no part in his upbringing. Please logout and login again. Shaquille O'Neal is well-known today as one of the most dominant big men in NBA history, but he almost never pursued a professional basketball career in the first place. His stepfather taught him about hardwork. Phillip Harrison was Jamaican, born in 1947 and grew up leading a disciplinarian life. For O'Neal, she's beginning to hit her stride on the floor. The couple had three. starting off in the year 2012. Your login session has expired. Harrison died in 2013. One. Shaquille O'Neal speaks during Pepsi Stronger Together and CTG Foundation Atlanta Law Enforcement on in McDonough, Georgia. He would ask his mother, who at the time explained the situation. Shaquille ONeal was one of the most dominant players during his era. Shaq met Toney at Vondas Kitchen in Newark, New Jersey. US Army sergeant Phillip Harrison raised Shaq. Shaquille ONeal is probably the most dominant big man that we will ever get to see on an NBA court. It was a jarring blow even for the man nicknamed 'Superman.' Bryn Forbes Wife and Kids: Is Forbes Married? Shaq adds One tragic story is Len Bias passed away from using cocaine. Kyrie Irving Wrote a Message on His Shoes in His First Game for the Dallas Mavericks Despite Losing $11 Million Nike Deal. I said, Brother, I dont hate you at all, its all good, shook his hand and gave him a hug. Being raised that way explains why he used a similar approach in raising Shaquille ONeal. The NBA Hall of Famer talked about living a double life during his marriage to Shaunie ONeal, admitting on a recent podcast, I was bad. Manage Settings It was his stepfather who recognized the talent he possessed and nurtured him into becoming a four-time champion, MVP, and perennial All-NBA and All-Star player. As a self-confessed bully who frequently found himself in hot water, O'Neal credits his father's influence with guiding him in the right direction. At least, one would like to think so . O'Neal has often talked about his father, Philip A. Harrison, being a massive influence in his life. Toney was later drawn into the world of drugs and turned into an addict, hurting his family in the process. She really was. And he crossed it a lot, she . years now. However, it was Philip Harrison who made him the man he is today, and he wont tell you otherwise! US Army sergeant Phillip Harrison raised Shaq. Shaquille O'Neal was one of the most dominant players during his era. Also read: "Charles Barkley and I Went Out For Dinner After Fighting": Shaquille O'Neal Revealed Unexpected Aftermath of Infamous Event Aug. 15 would have been his stepdad's birthday. pic.twitter.com/HSkuYkf5Fi, (@PLAY_1950) October 24, 2020. At the end of the day, they have earned their father a fortune. The five-time champion and his former wife, Shaunie Nelson . degree in mechanical engineering, Vishwesha has been writing content for about 3 However, he never would have become one of the greats if it wasnt for his stepfather, Philip Harrison. Joseph Toney spent around six years in prison after abandoning his family. One of Shaq's oldest endorsements came when Reebok signed Shaq and released O'Neal's signature shoe, "Shaq Attaq.". O'Neal is worth over $450 million, and that figure wouldn't be anywhere near that without endorsements. 2018 Topps Update Father's Day Powder Blue /50 Marcus Walden #US247 Rookie RC (#234835953710) r***l (2372) - Feedback left by buyer r***l (2372). He is currently pursuing his MBA in Sports Management and as such has attempted to immerse himself in a variety of professional sports and sports leagues like the Premier League, NBA, and NFL. Shaq had inked a new deal with the Los Angeles Lakers at that time. Shaquille ONeal is one of the best players in NBA History and he is arguably the most dominant one. In an interview with Esquire, O'Neal recalled when his father had a less than ideal reaction to a Reebok executive pitching O'Neal a deal worth $10 million: Shaquille O'Neal's father had a great influence early in his career and was crucial in O'Neal becoming the most dominant player in league history. Growing up, Toney played high school basketball and became an All-State guard. She married Shaquille's father, Army drill sergeant Phillip Harrison, when their firstborn was 2 years old. Shaquille O'Neal has long been an active businessman and media personality, even as a player. Joe Toney, who played high school basketball and was offered a basketball scholarship to play at Seton Hall. O'Neal was an efficient. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for Pepsi Stronger Together) Shaquille O'Neal, popularly known as Shaq, is one of the most respected names in the world of basketball. Thats the kind of highlight reel we should all strive for. Who Is Mikal Bridges Girlfriend Grainger Rosati? He has several companies all across the country and he uses his popularity to perfection. O'Neal born in Newark, New Jersey was raised by his mother and stepfather, Harrison after Toney left the family following O'Neal's birth. NBA Legend Shaquille ONeal was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame this week, and many stories about his career were retold and explained long after he had been gone from the game. One of the most notable instances of that came back in 2003, when O'Neal was in the midst of the second half of his stint with the Lakers. But, I was a major, high-level juvenile delinquent that couldve definitely been in trouble all the time., With a little introspection, ONeal was thankful for it, adding, thats why he knew that all the tactics he used on me would definitely work. Taahirah was born in Orlando, Florida. Shaq says that this tragic story helped him get to where he is. Shaquille O'Neal On Meeting His Biological Father: 'I Don't Judge Him' Dr. Phil 6.18M subscribers Subscribe 1.7M views 3 years ago #DrPhilShow #DrPhil #PhilMcGraw Basketball legend. Shareef O'Neal is looking to follow in his superstar father's footsteps, but it seems as though Shaquille O'Neal has different aspirations for his 22-year-old son. A young O'Neal was reprimanded by Harrison for playing a more toned-down version of basketball. Stephen A Smith says Kyrie Irving deserves $50 million a year, Isiah Thomas says Victor Wembanyama will 'change the NBA'. The show provides the most comprehensive forum on mental health issues in the history of television. Harrison saw potential in O'Neal and was a guiding force throughout his basketball career. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. Whenever Shaq felt like he was going out of line, he had a panel of five of his closest people who would advise him on everything. According to reports, there was a time when Toney sighted ONeal at a high school game and tried to meet him, but Harrison forbade it. It is noteworthy that Harrison was not O'Neal's biological father, but rather, an adoptive parent. Taahirah O'Neal. The Dr. Phil Show is an American daytime talk show and TV series with host and personality Dr. Phil McGraw, who offers advice from his experience as a psychologist. Shaquille ONeal was troubled upon receiving the news. He showed him. However, none of this would have been possible without his stepfather, the man who promised to make him the greatest big man of all time! Yet ONeal would have a chance to thank his father, even though he wouldnt be around to see it. Given that Ming openly looked up to Shaq, Big Diesel's father made sure an apology was in order. Philip Harrison played a prominent role in the upbringing of Shaquille ONeal and even coached his youth basketball teams. By the Hall of Famer's own admission, he was a pretty troubled child. They made things easier for her at a time she missed her father. Shaq was estranged from his biological father until he was in his forties. Giannis Antetokounmpo Injury Update: Will Giannis Play in the All-Star Game? Shaqs relationship with his real father may have started off shaky. (WGCL) HENRY COUNTY, Ga. (Gray News) - Shaquille O'Neal is . One of the most popular sports personalities in the world, Shaquille O'Neal, wasn't on the best of terms with his biological father, Joseph Toney, given the latter being a convicted felon. In fact, there has been no shortage of superstars, especially when it comes to the talent at the big man positions. It took some time for O'Neal to feel the full ramifications of his comments. ONeal was a two-time All-American at LSU, as well as a two-time SEC Player of the Year and Adolph Rupp Trophy winner in 1991; he was also named college player of the year by AP and UPI. Shareef Rashaun O'Neal was born on January 11th, 2000. Milwaukee Bucks vs Chicago Bulls Injury Report, Expert Picks, Predictions, Expected Roster, and More Details | February 16 2023. O'Neal was a toddler when his birth father, Joseph Toney, was arrested for drug possession and forging checks. Not only talk. However, he didnt even know they were not related till he was 11! We upload new videos every day, so make sure you subscribe and ring the bell for all notifications, so you don't miss a single one.Full episodes of the Dr. Phil Show premiere every weekday on CBS, with a new season premiering every fall in 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023. Toney went on for years without trying to make an effort to get back in touch with Shaq and his former wife. Phillip Harrison, Shaq's military-member father, crossed the line from raising a tough child to abuse, according to Jackie MacMullan, who wrote the book with Shaq. NBA Trade Rumors: Insider Believes Rift Between Anthony Davis and LeBron James Could Leave to DallasMavericksMove. Harrison passed away in 2013 but is credited by ONeal for being the man whom he has become in life. (C) 1994 Zomba Recording LLChttp://vevo.ly/CIo4ZN#ShaquilleONeal #Biolo. Shaquille O'Neal recalled a valuable lesson he learned from his stepfather, Philip Harrison, during his rookie year in the NBA. Shaquille ONeal always credits his stepfather for making him who he is. In an appearance on the "Impaulsive" podcast, Shaq revealed. You have entered an incorrect email address! FILE: Amirah "Mimi" O'Neal, pictured third from left in 2018, the daughter of NBA Hall of Famer Shaquille O' Neal and VH1's Basketball Wives' star and executive producer, Shaunie O' Neal, has . Shaq is also a loving father to six kids from two different partners. 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Before Dwight Howard was the best man in Orlando it was Shaq who was doing all the heavy lifting for that squad. 32 . http://www.argentaimages.comLSU head coach Dale Brown talks about the honesty, integrity, and qualities of Shaquille O'Neal, and Phillip Harrison, the father.