Pretty similar to many NBA stars, Shaquille O’Neal also had a huge car collection. Apart from having customized Ferraris and Lamborghinis, Shaq has bought some of the most whack vehicles in the world. The Diesel has even gone to purchase Rolls-Royces worth $1,300,000 because he felt insulted by the salesman. However, O’Neal has matured with growing age. Agreeing with Charles Barkley’s comments of not needing fancy cars, a more practical man now, the former Lakers legend reveals to own only Chargers and F-150s.
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Even though he preaches it now, the Big Aristotle didn’t agree with this philosophy. When received his first paycheck at 20 years of age, the big man went on to splurge $400,000 on 3 cars. Buying a Mercedes for himself and his parents, O’Neal would go on to spend 40% of his contract without even knowing the concept of taxes.
Glad that Shaq has come to a realization now.
“All I have is Chargers and F-150s”: Shaquille O’Neal
On the NBA on TNT’s episode of “The Big Podcast with Shaq”, O’Neal disclosed his opinions on fancy cars. Revealing that he only possesses Chargers and F-150s now, the 51-year-old answered co-host Spice Adams:
“I don’t really have any fancy cars now. So, I wouldn’t show up cause I am Shaq and I would have to show up with one of those $300,000-$400,000 Lamborghinis that I don’t have anymore. All I have is Chargers and F-150s now.”
The NBA Hall-Of-Famer has earned a fortune through his NBA contracts, endorsements, and as a businessman. As one could expect, the 4-time champ bought some of the best cars available.
With a net worth of $400,000,000, it’s very easy for the 15-time All-Star to still splurge on the most expensive vehicles. However, much more mature with his decisions now, going from brands like Rolls-Royce, Lamborghini, and Land Rover to using Dodge and Ford must’ve been a huge lifestyle change that Shaq embraces.
What are Charles Barkley’s opinions on NBA players driving expensive cars?
Charles Barkley is another example of a rational man that spends his money wisely. Before O’Neal’s take on the uselessness of driving fancy cars, the Round Mound of Rebound spoke about the same.
Back in February, during an interview with PEOPLE, Sir Charles expressed his opinions on NBA players driving expensive cars. Implying that the players drove high-end cars for the recognition, Barkley went on a passionate rant that started with him admitting to driving a KIA.
“I got a Kia. People know who I am. I don’t have to drive an expensive car. They know me.”
The former Suns’ legend, with a $60 million net worth, even gave out financial advice of his own:
“You’ve got to really save your money. Invest it well.”
It’s absolutely great to see the likes of Shaq and Chuck spreading financial awareness to the next generation of hoopers.
