Successful athletes often envision their future even as they continue to grow in their careers. This builds their egos that in turn fuels their ferocity. Shaquille O’Neal was no different. Even as a high school student, he was ferocious beyond measure, obsessed with the need to be acknowledged.
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One time, before he joined LSU, Shaq was scheduled to play in Dapper Dan Roundball Classic. The tournament boasted of some of the top high school talents and was run by Sony Vaccaro, the man who brought Michael Jordan the Nike deal.
In his book Shaq Uncut, O’Neal detailed how Vaccaro was unaware of the 7ft 1″ center. Shaq did not like the fact that Sonny’s attention was only on Tracy Murray and Kenny Anderson. He responded by putting on a show.
Shaquille O’Neal was enraged by Vaccaro’s cold shoulder
In his biography, Shaq wrote how Vaccaro was giving the top prospects merchandise from Nike. Shaq too wanted the free sneakers and bags. So, he went up to Sonny and asked him where his bag was.
Vaccaro in return asked Diesel who he was. ‘Shaquille O’Neal,’ he proudly announced his name. But that wasn’t enough. Diesel had to prove his worth and show Vaccaro he had made a mistake by not giving him the Nike bag.
Shaq: “I get to the game and Sonny Vaccaro, the guy who runs the tournament and works for Nike, is sucking up to the big names like Tracy Murray and Kenny Anderson, giving them Nike sneakers and Nike bags. I’m standing there waiting and finally I say, “Sir, you forgot my bag.” He turns and says, “And your name is?” I say, “Shaquille O’Neal.” I’m so mad I’m shaking. I go out that night and I own Sonny Vaccaro’s stupid game. I’m named the MVP.”
It is safe to assume that O’neal left his mark on Sonny with his performance. After all, who won’t remember seeing a 7ft 1″ giant dunk the ball hard enough to almost rip the rim out.
Sonny Vaccaro helped Michael Jordan bag Nike deal
Sonny Vaccaro is remembered most fondly as the man who signed Michael Jordan to Nike. He was one of the main men who helped forge the Air Jordan brand. His vision and dedication to offering the right deal to the greatest star ever became easily the greatest shoe deal in history.
Michael Jordan has roughly earned $1.3 billion through the deal. His net worth now proudly stands at $2.2 billion. In fact, it was his shoe deal that allowed the Chicago Bulls to hold Michael for much less salary than he was worth. MJ, hell-bent on loyalty and winning and with no need for money, let the low salary slide. Fascinating how Vaccaro was the one responsible for it.
