What happens when a good deed takes a dark turn? Shaquille O’Neal just found out the hard way. As we know it, Big Diesel built a fortune both during and after his NBA career, but when it comes to giving back, he prefers hands-on generosity—helping people directly rather than handing money over to organizations. That’s why it’s surprising to see his name caught up in controversy over a rare donation.
According to the Los Angeles Times, both O’Neal and Draymond Green made five-figure donations that allegedly ended up in the hands of a Crips gang leader. What started as a good deed has now been tied to a shocking series of allegations.
Federal authorities have accused Eugene “Big U” Henley Jr. of crimes ranging from murder and kidnapping to extortion and fraud, as reported by Yahoo Sports. While 18 other alleged members of the Rollin’ 60s gang have already been charged and is reported to have turned himself in, according to the LA Times. But Henley isn’t just known for his ties to the streets.
As First Sportz points out, he also runs a nonprofit called Developing Options, aimed at steering underprivileged kids away from gang life through sports. On the surface, it sounds like a worthy cause—one that likely convinced Shaquille O’Neal to contribute.
Jun 6, 2024; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Shaquille O’Neal looks on before the game between the Boston Celtics and the Dallas Mavericks in game one of the 2024 NBA Finals at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports
If the Los Angeles Times report holds true, O’Neal donated $20,000 to Developing Options. Some believe he may have done it out of respect for Henley’s ties to the hip-hop world, where Shaq has had his own presence. Others speculate he simply wanted to support gang intervention efforts without getting too directly involved.
Regardless of the intent, this situation serves as a reminder that even the most well-meaning gestures can take unexpected turns. Now, this incident might make Shaq further stick to methods of giving back to the community he has trusted before.
Shaquille O’Neal has been an active champion of the cause of community
Big Diesel isn’t just a basketball legend—he’s a force for good in the community. One of his biggest contributions? The Shaquille O’Neal Foundation helps underserved kids through education, sports, and community programs, giving them the tools to succeed.
But Shaq’s generosity doesn’t stop there. Remember when he donated 500 pairs of athletic shoes to children in Ecatepec, Mexico? He’s all about making sure kids everywhere have access to sports essentials.
And when the holidays roll around, Shaq’s kindness shines even brighter. As Shaq-A-Claus, he spreads Christmas joy with toys for underprivileged kids. Then there’s Shaqsgiving where he makes sure families in need have turkeys on their tables. Big Diesel’s heart is just as big as his legacy.
Clearly, reaching out to those in need personally is his thing, which we could see more of after this recent controversy.
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