Despite a $500 million net worth, Shaq just finished his fourth degree. He warns graduates: ‘Your character will take you further than your resume’ |
Despite a $500 million net worth, Shaq just finished his fourth degree. He warns graduates: ‘Your character will take you further than your resume’
For members of the class of 2026, graduation comes with a nagging uncertainty: in an AI-powered economy, was four years—and thousands of dollars—for a degree really worth it? But if there’s one person still making the case for higher education, it’s Shaquille O’Neal.
The 54-year-old former NBA star has amassed an estimated net worth of roughly $500 million, yet he just earned his fourth college degree; This time, a master of arts in liberal arts from Louisiana State University (LSU).
And his advice to Gen Z is simple: learning doesn’t end with a diploma.
“Never stop learning,” O’Neal told graduates during the LSU commencement ceremony earlier this week. “I’m proud of you all today, but this is not the end of your journey. Make sure you continue to strive, continue to learn, continue to have fun.”
In Shaq fashion, he ended the message with a plug for his candy brand, encouraging students to “continue to eat Shackalicious gummies at your local 7-Eleven and all the other stores.”
But the joke underscored a larger point: O’Neal has built a business empire that stretches far beyond basketball, turning his personal brand into a sprawling portfolio of investments, consumer products, and even a fried chicken chain. Despite his success, he said professional achievement ultimately comes down to something less tangible than credentials.
“Your character will take you further than your resume,” O’Neal said. “Continue to be kind. Continue to be humble. Continue to help those........