“Everybody in the car passed away” – Shaquille O’Neal once CHEATED death and changed his entire mindset

Shaquille O'Neal's life-altering near-death experience in Germany: A story of choices, resilience, and leadership.

“Everybody in the car passed away” – Shaquille O’Neal once CHEATED death and changed his entire mindset

Although Shaquille O’Neal grew up in San Antonio, Texas, he was born and reared in Newark, New Jersey. Additionally, O’Neal lived briefly in Germany when “Sarge” Philip Harrison, his stepfather, was stationed there. The legendary Los Angeles Lakers player recently spoke about his near-death encounter in Germany.

A young O’Neal was out drinking with his mates in Germany during a snowfall. After that, they made the decision to take a road trip, but Shaq wouldn’t get in the vehicle. The automobile got into an accident shortly after, and none of the passengers survived.

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During a conversation at “An Evening with Shaquille O’Neal” in Melbourne, Australia, O’Neal related the story, he stated,  “They decided to drive in Germany during a winter storm,” O’Neal said. “Something told me not to get in the car. I didn’t get in the car and everybody in the car passed away. After that I was like, You know what? I have to be a leader. I can’t just follow guys because I’m trying to be cool.”

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O’Neal and his family returned to the US after residing in Germany until his sophomore year of high school. Shaq rose to fame as a high school student in San Antonio when they moved there. After that, he spent three seasons at LSU.

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Shaquille O’Neal’s near-death experience: A pivotal moment that shaped his path to leadership and NBA greatness

This terrifying encounter made a lasting impression on the teenage Shaq. It was a turning point in his life when he saw how important it is to lead rather than just follow.

Shaquille O'Neal (Getty images)
Shaquille O’Neal (Getty images)

He was aware of the consequences of his decisions and how they might affect his life’s path.

In addition to saving his life from the catastrophe that evening, O’Neal’s choice to stay out of that unfortunate automobile paved the way for his amazing path in the basketball world. His drive and will to lead both on and off the court started to show, which eventually helped him become a celebrity.

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