Who are Shaquille O’Neal’s parents, Lucille O’Neal and Joseph Toney?
Shaquille O'Neal is beyond doubt one of the greatest ever to have graced the game - but exactly how much is known of his parents?
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Shaq O'Neal and Parents
One of the sport’s greatest ever, Shaquille O’Neal, has had a legendary basketball career. Born March 6, 1972, to parents Lucille O’Neal and Joseph Toney, Shaq was the eldest among his siblings. However, Shaquille O’Neal grew up with his mother, Lucille, and stepfather, Phillip Harrison.
When Shaq was an infant, his father, Joseph Toney, had been arrested due to involvement in drug possession and forging checks. From then on, Lucille had to raise her children on her own.
Later when she met Army Sergeant Phillip Harrison, the two got married. Phillip had been a real father figure to Shaq and introduced him to basketball. So exactly how influential were Shaquille O’Neal’s parents in his career?
Who are Shaquille O’Neal’s Parents?
Eldest of his siblings Ayesha, Lateefah, and Jamal, Shaq was Lucille O’Neal and Joseph Toney’s firstborn. Since being arrested and serving six years of prison time, Toney did not attempt to reconcile with his family. Shaq’s mother faced many difficulties bringing up her children alone until she met an Army Sergeant, Phillip Harrison. Lucille O’Neal had been supportive throughout his career and had been seen often in the NBA cheering for her son.
Phillip became more than a father figure to Shaq, and the NBA star acknowledges his stepfather’s contribution to becoming the man he is today. Harrison is said to have introduced Shaquille to basketball, eventually paving the path toward his stellar career. Phillip passed away in 2013 but had been the ultimate guiding force throughout Shaq’s basketball career.
Where do Shaquille O’Neal’s parents live?
Lucille O’Neal raised her children in Central Ward Newark, New Jersey. In 2002, she divorced her husband, Phillip Harrison. After 30 years of raising her children, in 2003, Lucille resumed her studies at Bethune-Cookman University, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration. Later she completed her Masters of Arts in Organisational Management from the University of Phoenix in 2005. She is currently staying in Florida.
After serving his prison time, Joseph Toney tried to live a reformed life. He is said to be living in Newark, New Jersey.
What did Shaquille O’Neal’s parents do for a living?
Lucille O’Neal is an author, spokesperson, and philanthropist and is the president of the Mothers of Professional Basketball Players Association. She is also a Board Member of Orlando’s Ovarian Cancer Alliance. Her annual fundraiser, “Shaq’s Mama Said Knock You Out!” benefits The Odessa Chambliss Quality of Life Fund.
Shaq’s father, Toney, had played high school basketball. He went on to become an All-State guard and was offered a basketball scholarship at Seton Hall. Later he was drawn into the world of crime, and since coming out of jail, Toney has tried to reform his life. He worked as a driver of a delivery truck that supplied food and necessities to shelters.
What is the estimated net worth of Shaquille O’Neal’s parents?
Other than being a philanthropist and motivational speaker, Lucille O’Neal has authored the book “Walk Like You Have Somewhere to Go.”
Her involvement in fundraisers and a wide array of social work has made her a prominent figure. Lucille O’Neal’s estimated worth is about $200,000. However, Joseph Toney’s net worth is not known as of now.
Shaquille O’Neal’s parents’ young photos
FAQs about Shaquille O’Neal
Shaquille O’Neal’s parents are Lucille O’Neal and Joseph Toney.
Shaquille O’Neal’s stepfather is Phillip Harrison.
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Anjum Ash.
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