“I Had Died and Gone to Heaven”: When $400 Million Worth Shaquille O’Neal Was Thrilled to Earn $15/Hr

Shaquille O’Neal is amongst the richest athletes in the world. Though not a billionaire, his empire is still impressive and estimated at $400 million. That’s more than some highly successful businesses even. But contrary to how it may seem now, that O’Neal was always a man of wealth, Shaq grew up in a financially troubled background.

He wasn’t dirt poor but resources were scant in the O’Neal household. His stepfather, Philip Harrison, was a military man. He did not make much but he knew how to live proudly. He molded Shaq in the same way.

Of course, as a teenager, he wasn’t as agreeing with his father. Though unable to say anything in return, there were things that Shaquille O’Neal craved. Things only money could bring.

At LSU, while playing basketball, Shaq also found a way to make money. This new update in his life, having his own money, made the 7ft 1″ center ecstatic.

Also read: “Told Shaquille O’Neal We Got One of the Greatest Players Ever”: When Jerry West Foresaw Kobe Bryant’s Future and Let The Diesel Know

Shaquille O’Neal earned $15/hr in LSU

In his book Shaq Uncut, Shaquille O’Neal proudly wrote of his time at LSU. He was happier than he had ever been in life. His talent was finally shining and he was getting the acknowledgment he deserved. On top of it, he was finally getting paid.

Shaq: “The other good thing about LSU was they helped us get jobs in the summer, all on the up and up. We made $15 an hour. We got $7 per hour during the summer and the other $8 an hour was allotted back to us during the school year. I also qualified for the Pell Grant, which helped low-income students pay for school, so for the first time in my life I actually had some cash. I was convinced I was rich. Free food in the dining hall and some pocket money. I had died and gone to heaven.”

Diesel is deeply loyal to LSU

Shaq has never hidden his love for his alma mater. He played 3 seasons for the Tigers before moving on to the NBA. In those three years, he established his dominance.

In fact, he averaged 21.6 points, 4.6 blocks, and 13.5 rebounds per game. His time in LSU was clearly a warning to everyone in the league.

Also read: “Told Shaquille O’Neal We Got One of the Greatest Players Ever”: When Jerry West Foresaw Kobe Bryant’s Future and Let The Diesel Know