Shaquille O’Neal is a man who has quite a few nicknames. With close to 34 to his name, he has gone by Big Diesel, The Big Aristotle, and even Wilt Chambereezy. But, the funniest nickname he has was bestowed upon him by Lauren Thomas. The daughter of Isiah Thomas hilariously called him Shaquille Oatmeal.
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It’s a known fact that Shaq has one of the most unique names in NBA history. The league has seen quite a few O’Neals over the years. But, when he joined the league in 1992, Shaquille was quite a rare first name.
But, in a strange turn of events, it was his surname of O’Neal that proved to be a mouthful for Thomas’ daughter. To the point where she completely disregarded its obvious Irish roots. And, instead turned his name into something you’d find on the breakfast table.
Shaquille O’Neal received his most hilarious nickname from Isiah Thomas’ daughter
Over the years, Shaq has developed quite a reputation. He is a four-time NBA Champion and an MVP. Not to mention, he is widely considered to be one of the most dominant forces in NBA history. Hence his nicknames, Superman, Diesel, and The Man of Steel.
All monickers that are rightfully associated with him. But, perhaps the best nickname he has ever received, is one he doesn’t openly go by. One that he was given by Lauren Thomas. And, that is Shaquille Oatmeal. As Isiah Thomas, Lauren’s father revealed during one of Shaq’s games with the Lakers. His daughter struggled to pronounce the name O’Neal. Hence leading to her calling him Oatmeal instead.
“In this league, they give you a lot of nicknames. Like, he’s Shaq Daddy. You know, he’s The Man of Steel. He’s kind of everything. But, the funniest nickname that Shaq has is the one my daughter calls him. She calls him Shaquille Oatmeal. She can’t get O’Neal out!”
It certainly is one of the more interesting nicknames out there. Nevertheless, while he may have a lot of nicknames, Shaq is also quite adept at handing them out. Just ask Paul Pierce, Dwyane Wade, and Tim Duncan.
Shaq is credited for handing Paul Pierce, Dwyane Wade, and Tim Duncan their nicknames
His 34 nicknames aside, Shaquille O’Neal has also given out quite a few nicknames himself. Perhaps the three most important are The Truth, The Flash, and The Big Fundamental. Ephitets he gave to Paul Pierce, Dwyane Wade, and Tim Duncan respectively. And, some of the most memorable ones at that.
Safe to say, Shaq is a man who has a way with words. And, it doesn’t look like he plans on stopping anytime soon. It will be intriguing to see just what nickname he comes up with next.
