[Shaq shows his strength][Image courtesy of Google images]
Mac Kilduff, Staff Writer
Despite Shaquille O’Neal’s large stature, he has no problem fitting inside your TV and making millions of dollars in the process.
Shaq’s height reflects his annual income. He actually makes about $35 million total, with about $15 million coming from the endorsements in 2007, reports Jonah Freedman.
Budget cuts caused O’Neal to lose his $15 million endorsement contract with Reebok in 1998, but he has clearly not slowed down. In 2007, that Shaq signed an endorsement deal with Chinese shoe company Li-Ning which showed financial promise at that point. He’s also previously had contracts with Pepsi, Radio Shack, Burger King, Vitamin Water and can often be seen selling Comcast services along with Ben Stein.
Shaq, often portrayed as a lighthearted individual, fun and involved in charity work, doesn’t mind talking about his endorsements, as he’s not in it for the money, but rather for the game. He once commented on his endorsement deals saying, “I'm tired of hearing about money, money, money, money, money. I just want to play the game, drink Pepsi, wear Reebok.” And while endorsements sometimes go, being at the top of his game will ensure they will keep coming.
