Shaquille O'Neal Reveals What He Was Once 'Ashamed Of'

Shaquille O'Neal opened up on Wednesday's episode of ' The Big Podcast with Shaq ' about a past embarrassment from his childhood.

Known for his larger-than-life personality and cheerful demeanor, O'Neal has been a source of humor and energy both on and off the court, from his NBA days to his current role as an analyst on 'Inside the NBA.'

However, even Shaq had his insecurities growing up.

Despite his towering presence, O'Neal revealed he struggled with being tall as a kid.

"I used to be ashamed of being tall," O'Neal shared. "Everyone was short, my friends were short, and I was kinda doofy at thirteen."

The challenges of coordination and fitting in with his peers made his height a source of embarrassment during his teenage years.

It wasn't until O'Neal met his great-grandfather in Dublin, Georgia that his perspective shifted. His great-grandfather, who stood at 7'3" and resembled "He-Man," helped O'Neal embrace his size.

"I seen him from far, 7'3'," Shaq said. "Looked like He-Man."

His mother told him he was destined to be like his great-grandfather, and it was this encounter that transformed his outlook.

"From that day on, I felt like I wanna be dominant," he said. "I want to be like that."

O'Neal's newfound confidence propelled him to break numerous NBA records, earn an MVP award, secure four championships, and achieve many other accolades.

Even someone as extraordinary as Shaq grapples with insecurities, but sometimes, a single moment of realization can turn self-doubt into tremendous success.

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