Shaquille O’Neal for all his dominance on the court has continued to be an influential figure off it. Since his retirement over a decade ago, O’Neal is fondly remembered for his governing performances. Whether it was for the Orlando Magic, the Los Angeles Lakers, or the Miami Heat.
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Yet, the past 10 years have witnessed O’Neal make a significant impact off the court. And all of that is down to his philanthropic efforts in enabling future generations.
The 4x NBA champion has made numerous donations, set up youth foundations, and assisted single mothers financially. The gestures made by the former Lakers Center are often overlooked by the larger masses.
His supporters are aware of the kind of goodwill he partakes in. The 50-year-old recently left his followers rejoiced as it was announced that he would be unveiling a new ‘Comebaq Court’ facility.
Shaquille O’Neal and Alonzo Mourning: ‘Comebaq Court’!
The ‘Comebaq Court’ is a basketball court and center for the youth, which is funded by the Shaquille O’Neal foundation and Icy Hot, Shaq’s longtime partner.
O’Neal and former teammate Alonzo Mourning are collaborating to establish the center and a court for the youth of Miami. The court will be located inside the Overtown Youth Center, as part of a staggering $20 Million renovation.
There are two other ‘Comebaq Courts‘ excluding the new project. They are set to be built in Las Vegas and Newark, New Jersey. As per reports, the completion of the youth center project in Southbeach is estimated for early 2023.
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Speaking about the initiative, O’Neal said:
“I’m doing Comebaq Courts all over the world, and it can definitely save a life. I always tell the young ballers, if you want to shoot something, shoot a ball.”
His partner, Alonzo Mourning had the following to say about the project:
“I grew up on the courts, and it kept me out of trouble. Kept me occupied, taught me teamwork and camaraderie, all these different components of life that young kids should learn at an early age.”
The inception of the Overtown Youth Center was in 2003 by Mourning and real estate developer Martin Z. Margulies. The purpose of the center was to create an environment and a youth development program for at-risk kids and men. The center would take care of at-risk youth and even young men up to 25. It is said to provide comprehensive services for said individuals.
Also read: “That Was Nasty”: Kevin Durant Blown Away By Mike Williams’ Catch of The Season Against LA Rams
Shaquille O’Neal’s kindness!
The ‘Comebaq Court’ in Miami is just the latest act of kindness from the former NBA MVP. The past few years have seen the 50-year-old guiding and assisting people in need. Something he has always been proud about.
Shaquille O’Neal when it’s all said and done will have a reputation that precedes him. Not for the extensive dominance displayed on the basketball court, but for his incredible selflessness and warmth towards those that require it.
