'Excuse Me? You Want To Check MY Credit?' – NBA Legend Shaq Shares He Felt 'Disrespected' When Trying To Buy His Mother A House

Shaquille O'Neal, a household name in sports and business, opened up about a surprising moment when he felt disrespected during a real estate transaction. In a 2021 interview with Earn Your Leisure, posted to YouTube, Shaq explained the encounter. 

The NBA legend, known for his towering presence and financial success, recalled trying to buy a house for his mother, only to be met with an unexpected hurdle: the real estate agent demanded to check his credit score. For a man worth hundreds of millions, the request felt insulting.

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O'Neal described the situation with a sense of disbelief. "The lady said, ‘I need to check your credit,' and I was like, ‘Excuse me? You want to check MY credit?'" he explained. He felt that his long-standing reputation as a businessman and athlete should have been enough to clear any doubts. After all, this man had built an empire with investments ranging from tech startups to restaurant franchises.

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Despite his wealth, the demand for a credit check made O'Neal feel underestimated and disrespected. To him, it wasn't just about the money but about being treated like anyone else. O'Neal's reaction was swift: "I told her, ‘I want this house and I want to close in 10 days. Don't talk to me about credit.'" His response came from a place of pride and frustration and he ensured that his terms were met on his schedule.

For many, this moment highlights a reality that even someone as high-profile as O'Neal isn't immune to moments of doubt or disrespect. The encounter also raises questions about how perceptions of wealth and success can clash with standard practices like credit checks in real estate transactions. Should O'Neal, or anyone in his position, be treated differently because of their financial standing, or is this simply a routine part of doing business?

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O'Neal made it clear that he wouldn't let the situation slide. By insisting on a quick closing, he informed the real estate agent that he was serious. In the end, O'Neal got what he wanted. The house was purchased without delays and the agent's attempt to check his credit became a small footnote in his larger story of success.

Reflecting on the experience, O'Neal emphasized the importance of standing up for oneself, especially in situations where one feels disrespected or undervalued. Wealth and fame didn't prevent him from facing what many might consider an unnecessary barrier.

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Shaq explained in the interview that his mother was the primary motivation for his success, saying, "I never wanted to be rich. I just wanted to buy my mother anything she wants."

In 2024, Shaq's net worth is estimated to be $500 million. He's no stranger to real estate investing, with an estimated 21% of his massive portfolio dedicated to real estate. He even once bought a house without looking inside, just because it was across from Paula Abdul. 

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