DraftKings Signs Shaquille O’Neal as Brand Ambassador in Multi-Year Deal

DraftKings is signing NBA Hall of Famer and television personality Shaquille O’Neal as one of its brand ambassadors in a multi-year deal. Shaq, 52, won four NBA championships, three Finals MVPs, and was a 15-time All-Star in his 19-year playing career.

DraftKings welcomes NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal

Shaq announced his DraftKings deal in a recent video, featuring his many nicknames, on X. “Some people call me Shaq, but you can call me Mr. DraftKings,” he said before banking in a seated hook shot from the top of the key.

“DraftKings is thrilled to welcome NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal to the family, said Stephanie Sherman, DraftKings Chief Marketing Officer. “Shaq’s personality and unparalleled energy will elevate our brand through various marketing initiatives all NBA season. His enormous presence matches our commitment to delivering exceptional experiences for our players.”

Of course, this isn’t the first time Shaq has appeared in marketing campaigns for a sportsbook. In 2021, he became a brand ambassador for WynnBET and trademarked the term “Shaqpot” as part of his promotions there.

The 7-foot-1 big man has promoted PointsBet in Australia as well.

Shaq has appeared in commercials for over a dozen companies

Shaq has also appeared in commercials for companies such as American Express, Buick, Burger King, Carnival Cruises, Epson, Frosted Flakes, Gold Bond, Hulu, IcyHot, Nestlé Crunch, Papa John’s, Reebok, The General, and Vitamin Water among others.

A number of other high-profile athletes from LeBron James to Wayne Gretzky have also joined marketing campaigns for other sportsbooks in recent years.

In January, James was brought into the DraftKings advertising arena for football marketing. As an active NBA member, LeBron can represent sports betting companies as long as it doesn’t involve the league.

Additionally, other athlete endorsements include Kevin Garnett and Gretzky for BetMGM, the Manning family for Caesars, David Ortiz for DraftKings, and Rob Gronkowski and Jordan Spieth for FanDuel.