Shaquille O’Neal, known throughout his illustrious career as both an NBA legend and an imposing physical presence, has always been clear about one thing: he fiercely protects those he cares about. Even long after stepping off the hardwood and establishing himself as a successful businessman, media personality, and the President of Reebok Basketball, Shaq hasn’t lost his edge—or his readiness to defend his friends. The sports world saw this side of him once again when he recently challenged former NFL star Robert Griffin III (commonly known as RG3) over a racially charged controversy ignited on social media.

The controversy unfolded after RG3, the former quarterback whose collegiate stardom and dynamic rookie season in the NFL once made him a household name, reposted a doctored image of WNBA standout Angel Reese on social platform X (formerly Twitter). The image, a mockup of a hypothetical NBA 2K26 video game cover, depicted Reese as a monkey—a deeply offensive act invoking widely condemned racist tropes. The backlash was swift, with fans and other athletes alike condemning the post, but none were as direct in their response as Shaquille O’Neal.

During an appearance on the “Off The Record” podcast, Shaq didn’t mince words. Unleashing a pointed warning at RG3, he stated emphatically, “RG3, tweet another monkey post about my girl Angel Reese. I’m going to punch you in your MF face. It’s enough.” In his statement, Shaq made it abundantly clear that while he does not typically involve himself in public call-outs or threats, he felt obliged to step in this time to protect someone he deeply respects.

Shaq’s relationship with Angel Reese is rooted in more than just professional courtesy. Both attended Louisiana State University (LSU), and as a proud alumnus, O’Neal has celebrated Reese’s impact on women’s basketball both on and off the court. Reese, known for her dynamic play and outsized persona, has become one of the faces of the WNBA as a forward for the Chicago Sky. Her prominence led Reebok, under Shaq’s presidency, to sign her to a significant shoe deal—further cementing her status as an influential figure in the sport.

Reese’s collegiate and professional career, though impressive, hasn’t been without controversy. Much of it stems from her celebrated and sometimes heated rivalry with Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark. The rivalry, covered exhaustively by sports media, has elevated viewership and added narrative depth to the league—but has also drawn criticism and personal attacks. Among Reese’s most persistent critics has been RG3, who frequently uses his podcast and social media presence to scrutinize and sometimes mock her behavior and career.

While criticism and debate are part of the sports landscape, RG3’s choice to amplify a racist caricature by reposting that altered game cover image stepped across a line. It triggered an immediate reaction from Shaq, who spoke not just as a media figure or brand executive, but as a mentor and protector. In his impassioned remarks, O’Neal explained that he actively advises Reese to avoid engaging with negativity—recommending she not “clap back” at every insult or provocation. But this time, he drew a line in the sand.

Looking outward, Shaq also reflected on RG3’s own journey, noting that the quarterback’s early achievements—earning NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year honors and a Pro Bowl selection—were once the stuff of sports legend. Yet, as O’Neal observed, RG3’s sports career faltered after a catastrophic knee injury, and his recent notoriety has shifted to his polarizing podcast persona. “It’s a shame that all the stuff you did in your life, you’re going to be remembered for your podcast,” Shaq said bluntly. “You’re not that great. I don’t want to be remembered for Shaq’s ‘Big Podcast,’ I do not. So leave those girls alone. Let it go. You already spoke on it. Now let it go.”

For Shaq, the essence of competition involves rivalry, passion, and sometimes animosity—but this must be separated from real-world hate. He put this in perspective by noting that, as an NBA star, he “hated” the Celtics and the Clippers, but clarified that this was the performative, professional animosity inherent in sports, not genuine hatred. “That’s not real hate. Look around at what’s going on in this country. That’s hate. This…this is just sports.”

Angel Reese herself has not directly addressed the fallout from RG3’s offensive post, but she continues to handle her rising profile and the attention that it brings with focus and resilience. As a women’s basketball star, she is keenly aware of the heightened scrutiny and challenges historically faced by Black female athletes—making the support of influential figures like Shaq all the more vital.

The broader issue, of course, is not simply a personal feud or an isolated outburst, but a reflection of deeper currents in sports, media, and society. The intersection of race, gender, and athletic excellence often generates both admiration and animosity, and the way these issues are adjudicated in public discourse has real consequences for the athletes involved—and for the sports culture at large.

Shaquille O’Neal’s willingness to stand up for Angel Reese, to use his platform to directly challenge derogatory or racist commentary, sets an important precedent. It signals to sponsors, broadcasters, fans, and fellow athletes that casual racism and targeted harassment will not go unchallenged. In professional sports—where emotions and rivalries are part of the game—there is a need for clear boundaries and mutual respect, not just among players, but within the entire ecosystem that surrounds them.

As the dust settles from this controversy, one thing is clear: Shaq’s commitment to protecting friends and calling out injustice remains as strong as it ever was during his playing days. In standing up for Angel Reese, he’s reminded the world that basketball may be a game, but the issues facing its players are anything but trivial. And if his words are any indication, he’s ready to back them up with action—something RG3 and others would do well to remember.