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Yahoo
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Shaquille O'Neal Says Retiring in The Villages Is a ‘Dream Scenario'—and He Wants To Find Out if the Wild Rumors Are True
NBA legend Shaquille O'Neal has revealed his 'dream' is to retire in Florida's infamous community, The Villages, to discover if the sordid rumors about what goes on there are true. The 53-year-old former Miami Heat star, who shot his time on the basketball court away in 2011, has been sharing his pro insights as a sports analyst on 'Inside the NBA' and his podcast, 'The Big Podcast,' which he co-hosts with Adam Lefkoe. Most recently, O'Neal and Lefkoe welcomed boxing icon Mike Tyson to their studio and lifted the lid on what they want their future to look like. Although it's been many years since O'Neal thought about his retirement from basketball, the athlete revealed that he now has his eyes on retiring from his string of careers in general—and is looking forward to settling down in one specific place. When Lefkoe asked O'Neal what his 'dream retirement scenario' is, the basketball icon was quick to reveal that he already had a plan in place that saw him living the rest of his days at The Villages—the retirement community that has become known for its wild goings-on and STD reports. He began by noting that he always thinks about the fact that he has 'seven summers' left until he is 60. Tyson chimed in, 'That's how you have to think about, and then you have to ask yourself, 'What am I going to do at the end of my seventh summer?'' 'I tell my kids all the time that I don't want them taking care of me,' O'Neal, who shares children Shareef, 25, Amirah, 23, Shaqir, 22, and Me'arah, 19, with ex-wife Shaunie, said. He also has a stepson, Myles, 28, from Shaunie's former marriage. He also shares daughter Taahirah, 29, with ex-girlfriend, Arnetta Yardbourgh. O'Neal then lifted the lid on where he hopes he will spend his days after ringing in age 65. 'The dream scenario is: There's this place called The Villages. The Villages is an old folks' home, but they have the highest rate of STDs. I want to be there. 'When I get to 65 and I can't move, take me down to Ocala, Florida. Just drop me off, my boy,' the hoops star said. The Villages has come a long way from its humble beginnings as a trailer park in the 1970s. Today, it is a thriving, age-55-and-older community that spans 57 square miles—although it looks set to increase that footprint in the coming years. Last year, U.S. Census data revealed that The Villages was the nation's fastest-growing metro, growing 4.7% between 2022 and 2023. The purpose-built community offers its residents a wide array of amenities, including 3,000 social and special-interest clubs as well as activities like square dancing, drama, water ballet, belly dancing, precision golf cart driving, cheerleading, and tambourine tapping. There are also 14 country clubs, 17 pools, and 100,000 golf carts. Adding to The Villages' appeal is its access to all of the community amenities—gyms, pools, rec centers, softball fields, golf courses, clubs, and activities—are available for a fee of $199 per month, no matter the size of a resident's home. However, while the community is advertised as a thriving 'backdrop where you can live life to the fullest,' it is The Villages' residents and its bustling social scene that have attracted the most attention over the years. Many reports and rumors have emerged about the reportedly risqué scene that has emerged inside The Villages—with the community making national headlines in 2006, when WFTV news reported that its Women's Center had seen a enormous uptick in the number of cases of sexually transmitted diseases. 'One physician at the Women's Center of The Villages said even in her years working in Miami, she has never seen so many cases,' the report stated. This quote went viral, and the community quickly became known as the 'STD Capital of America,' despite subsequent reporting calling attention to the fact that there was no accurate data to back up these rumors. Still, the stain of scandal has persisted inside The Villages ever since—with more fuel added to that fire when reports began to surface, suggesting that a group of swingers living in the community were using 'loofah signaling' in order to publicly express their sexual preferences to other residents. That rumor has been traced back to a riff made by comedian Tora Himan, an Orlando-area drag queen who previously performed at The Villages as part of a cabaret show. A similar whisper that ran rampant involved upside-down pineapples. That scandal saw people on the web claiming that upside-down pineapples in The Villages were a way to signalize swinging. As of this writing, there are over 800 homes for sale in The Villages on The community has roughly 71,000 homes total, with new ones springing up daily. The most expensive home on the market in The Villages right now clocks in at $2.4 million. The pricier homes in The Villages tend to be on a golf course, preserve, or lake, according to real estate agent April Couturier. The home mentioned above checks two of those boxes and also happens to be in one of the upscale neighborhoods around Lake Sumter. In addition to big plans for his retirement, O'Neal boasts an impressive real estate portfolio, holding the keys to a slew of multimillion-dollar properties in Texas, Florida, California, Georgia, and Nevada. Related Articles Previously Sealed Court Documents Reveal Bryan Kohberger Chased Victim Through Idaho Murder House Erik Menendez Diagnosed With 'Serious Medical Condition'—Just Weeks Before the Brothers' Parole Hearing Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco Share Rare Glimpse Inside Their $35 Million Beverly Hills Mansion After Taylor Swift Gives Them a Gift From Her Kitchen Solve the daily Crossword
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
"I always had to protect you" - Allen Iverson confronted Shaquille O'Neal for tucking his chain in every time he was in Los Angeles
"I always had to protect you" - Allen Iverson confronted Shaquille O'Neal for tucking his chain in every time he was in Los Angeles originally appeared on Basketball Network. Fellow NBA legends Shaquille O'Neal and Allen Iverson had an intriguing and candid conversation during a podcast session last year. The pair reminisced about a lot of things, including the early days of their friendship, specifically why O'Neal often hid Iverson's chain under his shirt whenever they linked up in Los Angeles. Years have passed, but to this day, Iverson still wonders why O'Neal had to do that. The former Philadelphia 76ers superstar grabbed the opportunity to hear it from Shaq himself in their one-on-one discussion. O'Neal didn't beat around the bush and answered right away. He told Iverson straight up that he was doing it for his safety. "Every time I went to L.A., I had my chain out and then he'll tuck it in," Iverson told O'Neal on "The Big Podcast." "He'll tuck my chain in and then, [but] I'm seeing interviews [of Shaq], I'm seeing you on TV, and what you rock? I seen the Superman Chain, man." "Yeah, but I was in the area and I knew certain people [there]," Shaq responded to A.I. "I'm just saying, I knew certain people and I ain't want you out there, you know what I'm saying? So, I always had to protect you." Shaq has always admired Allen The connection between O'Neal and Iverson was nothing short of extraordinary. Though Shaq was undoubtedly the most dominant big man during his prime, he was admittedly a huge fan of the shifty point guard, who was a much smaller player. In fact, O'Neal once confessed to letting Iverson score on him during games. According to Shaq, there were moments when he could've blocked Allen's shot, but he would let it go in because of his admiration for him. "There were guys that when we played them, I was such a fan, I let them do what they wanted on me. White Chocolate (Jason Williams), I want him to go to work. Vince Carter, A.I. (Allen Iverson) and Tracy McGrady. Every time we played A.I., I liked him crossing over and he was tough. I could've blocked his shot multiple times, I just didn't want to," O'Neal said in an interview with Bleacher Report.A.I. was like a "little Shaq" Unlike other NBA all-time greats who only became friends with each other when their careers were finally over, O'Neal and Iverson bonded at the peak of their playing years. Even back then, there was already mutual admiration and respect between them. In 2001, they faced off in the NBA Finals, but that didn't affect their friendship at all. If anything, Shaq and A.I.'s relationship has grown stronger since then. It wasn't only O'Neal who appreciated Iverson. The 2001 NBA MVP also recognized Shaq's qualities both as a player and a person. In fact, Iverson took great pride in being labeled by some fans and analysts as Baby Shaq due to his resemblance to the legendary big man in terms of being a dominant player on the court. For Iverson, O'Neal is the greatest center of all time. On the other hand, Shaq recognizes Allen as one of the fiercest competitors he has ever faced. The friendship between the two icons of the game has already endured the test of time. Ultimately, they proved that true camaraderie could still take place between two literal story was originally reported by Basketball Network on Jul 27, 2025, where it first appeared.
Time of India
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
NBA legend Shaquille O'Neal vows to wear a black dress if Rudy Gobert gets inducted into Hall of Fame
Images via Getty Shaquille O'Neal made a stunning vow. The NBA Hall of Famer promised to wear a black dress if Rudy Gobert is inducted into the Hall of Fame. Shaquille made the vow in the recent episode of The Big Podcast with Shaq. Gobert is known for his defensive play. His lack of offensive attacks has landed him the tag of a one-dimensional player. Shaquille continues to be one of the biggest critics of Gobert's gameplay. As of this writing, Gobert has not issued any statement on Shaquille's controversial vow. Shaquille O'Neal continues to be Rudy Gobert's biggest hater Shaquille O'Neal is known for being a vocal critic. He continues to be one of the biggest haters of Rudy Gobert. Shaquille proved it during the latest episode of The Big Podcast with Shaq. Co-Host Adam Lefkoe and guests for the episode, the Morris Twins, were discussing the difference in aggression between on and off-court situations. Shaquille, however, maintains the same attitude in either of the situations. Proving his point, Shaquille stated, 'I will hate you everywhere, like I hate Rudy Gobert.' The analyst was asked about the reason behind his absolute hatred. He explained, 'He's making $250 million, he doesn't deserve it, dawg.' by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like TV providers are furious: this gadget gives you access to all channels Techno Mag Learn More Undo Shaquille went on, 'As the president of the Big Man Alliance, you're making big money, play like a f*****g big man. That's it.' He further added, 'Grow some balls, knock some people out. Don't let little white dudes from Denver dunk on you and talk s**t. You gotta grab them by the neck at the last second. Come on, bro. That's it.' Co-host Adam went on to state that we would want to see Shaquille's reaction upon Gobert's Hall of Fame induction. To this, Shaquille had a surprising reaction. He pulled out a picture of Charles Buckley wearing a black dress and stated, 'If Rudy Gobert gets into the Hall of Fame, I'll wear this dress to the mother******* ceremony.' Shaquille O'Neal takes a shot at Rudy Gobert's three-year $110 million contract extension In the same episode, Co-host Adam Lefkoe brought in the topic of CBA. The Morris twins and Adam discuss the NBA's latest CBA amendments. They talk about the salary caps and upper tier players getting the amount they deserve. However, Shaquille O'Neal had a slight contradiction in this aspect. 'But what if you're not an upper-tier guy and you get paid?' Shaquille questioned. Adam sought for more clarity, to which the analyst replied, 'Rudy Gobert is an upper-tier guy?' Shaq's Thoughts On Kobe vs T-Mac, Calls Out The Morris Twins On Their Jokic Beef + 2k Ratings Debate Adam tried to defend the four-time defensive player, but Shaquille was in no mood to listen. He simply stated, 'I would have gotten rid of them.' Marcus agreed with Shaq. 'He's not that good. Ain't gonna lie. He can play defense.' he stated. However, Shaq was not ready to give any credit to Gobert and questioned back, 'Can he?' Towards the end, Shaq stated, 'Barbecue Chicken alert. But congratulations, he got the money. But he's not a top-tier guy.' Shaq indirectly criticized the $110 million contract signed with Gobert. FAQs What is Shaquille O'Neal's net-worth? According to Celebrity Net Worth, Shaquille O'Neal's net worth stands at $500 million. What is Rudy Gobert's nickname? Rudy Gobert earned the nickname of 'Stifle Tower' just weeks into the NBA How old is Rudy Gobert? Rudy Gobert is 33 years old Also Read: 'Always and Forever' — NBA legend Dennis Rodman pours heartfelt tribute to WWE icon Hulk Hogan Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Time of India
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
'It ain't like I'm a small guy' — Markieff Morris dares Nikola Jokic's MMA-trained brothers to box
(Image Source - Getty Images) In a lively episode of "The Big Podcast" hosted by NBA legend Shaquille O'Neal on July 24, 2025, Markieff and Marcus Morris, twin brothers and seasoned NBA players, threw down a bold challenge. They dared Nikola Jokic's brothers, Strahinja and Nemanja Jokic, to step into a boxing ring to settle an old score. The conversation, sparked by co-host Adam Lefkoe's comment about fearing Jokic's towering siblings, turned into a heated exchange about size, strength, and a potential fists-only showdown. Markieff Morris flexes his 6-10 frame on The Big Podcast The joking began when Adam Lefkoe remarked to the crew, "I'm super scared of Jokic's brother. That guy is massive. He's got a mohawk and everything." Markieff Morris was quick to respond — 'What does it mean? The bigger they are, the harder they fall. We big too. I'm 6-10, 270. It ain't like I'm a small guy. I'm bigger than them.' On "The Big Podcast," Markieff showed off his confidence in his 6-foot-10, 270-pound physique, shrugging off any thoughts that the Jokic brothers' size would intimidate him. Shaq's Thoughts On Kobe vs T-Mac, Calls Out The Morris Twins On Their Jokic Beef + 2k Ratings Debate Marcus Morris, playing for the LA Clippers, jumped in to back his twin: 'Yeah, for sure! We can get as long as they don't use their feet, we can get it on.' by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like American Investor Warren Buffett Recommends: 5 Books For Turning Your Life Around Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo he reiterated the condition, stating, "As long as you can't use your feet. No kicking," in the same podcast conversation. The Morris brothers seemed to be aiming for a pure boxing match, mindful of the Jokic brothers' talents that extend past just boxing. Shaquille O'Neal, steering the conversation, asked, 'Oh because one of them is an MMA fighter?' to which Marcus replied, 'They'd be grabbing feet and all that. We can't do that. We can get it on straight.' This discussion, taken from "The Big Podcast," confirmed that Nemanja Jokic's MMA history was a major concern. Adam Lefkoe summed it up by saying, "So strictly boxing," and Marcus nodded in agreement, saying, "Only boxing," making the terms unmistakably clear. Markieff Morris recalls the 2021 incident with Nikola Jokic The dare from the Morris twins goes back to a heated moment in 2021, during an NBA matchup between the Denver Nuggets and the Miami Heat. Markieff Morris, who was playing for the Heat at the time, committed a hard foul on Nikola Jokic, elbowing him as Jokic was bringing the ball up the court in the fourth quarter. The Nuggets were already dominating the Heat, and Morris's foul seemed to ignite a response. Jokic retaliated by pushing Morris from behind, causing him to crash to the floor. Morris ended up with a neck injury that sidelined him for 58 games, while Jokic received a one-game suspension and Morris was fined $50,000. The fallout didn't stop there. Marcus Morris tweeted that night, 'Waited till bro turned his back smh. NOTED,' hinting at payback. Nikola's brothers, Strahinja and Nemanja, hit back by creating a Twitter account, @JokicBrothers, and posted: 'You should leave this the way it is instead of publicly threatening our brother! Your brother made a dirty play first. If you want to make a step further be sure we will be waiting for you !! Jokic Brothers. ' This online spat turned a one-off scuffle into a family feud. Fast forward to 2025, and the Morris twins are using Shaq's podcast to bring the rivalry back to life. In the episode, Markieff reflected on the 2021 incident and described Jokic's shove as a 'cheap shot,' saying, 'I did a basketball play... He hit me from behind... I'm not even in the mode of knowing you're about to hit me.' Also Read: Dwyane Wade returns to the game in a whole new way as Amazon builds a dream team for its first NBA season The concept of a boxing match featuring the Morris and Jokic brothers is tantalizing, but it's a stretch. Making it happen would involve navigating contracts, safety protocols, and securing approvals from the NBA and other organizations, not to mention the injury risks for professional athletes. Yet, the banter on the podcast illustrates just how genuine the rivalry appears. Shaq, who dubbed Nikola his 'favorite big man' on the show, even sided with the Morris twins against the Jokic brothers' antics, adding fuel to the fire. FAQs Which podcast featured this conversation about the Jokic brothers? The exchange happened on "The Big Podcast" with Shaquille O'Neal. What did Markieff Morris say about Jokic's brothers' size? He claimed he's bigger than them and not intimidated. Which NBA team does Marcus Morris play for? Marcus Morris currently plays for the LA Clippers. For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Time of India
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Fans shower their ire on Shaquille O'Neal's skeptical take on Megan Thee Stallion and Klay Thompson's relationship
via Getty Images: Shaquille O'Neal comments on Klay Thompson and Megan Thee Stallion Shaquille O'Neal recently revived his 'Shaqstradamus' persona, known for bold predictions, with his latest comments have drawn criticism from NBA fans. The basketball legend faced accusations of being a hater after sharing his thoughts on the new romance between Dallas Mavericks star Klay Thompson and Houston rapper Megan Thee Stallion . Shaquille O'Neal's 'six weeks' statement got backlash from the fans On a recent episode of The Big Podcast, O'Neal reacted to the couple's relationship with skepticism. When co-host Adam Lefkoe mentioned the budding romance, O'Neal rolled his eyes and shook his head. During a DraftKings-inspired segment, Lefkoe asked Shaq to set betting odds on how long Thompson and Megan Thee Stallion's relationship would last. O'Neal quickly dismissed the idea of their romance enduring, stating he wouldn't bet on its longevity with max limit of six weeks. "Give It 6 Weeks" Shaq & Mike Tyson REACT To Meagan Thee Stallion Dating Klay Thompson The podcast moved on after less than three minutes on the topic, but fans and social media users lingered, accusing O'Neal of jealousy and bitterness. Within hours, old Instagram Live clips resurfaced, highlighting O'Neal's apparent interest in Megan Thee Stallion. In one 2023 post, O'Neal joined her IG Live, commenting, "Merry Christmas boo boo," as she prepared for a performance. What did fans have to say on Shaquille O'Neal's bitter statement? A clip captured him among 49,000 viewers watching Megan Thee Stallion twerk to her hit "WAP," where he wrote, "Watching that booty." by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Struggling With Belly Fat? Try This at Home Home Fitness Hack Shop Now Undo These moments fueled online backlash, with one user commenting, "Shaq said six weeks because he couldn't even get six minutes with her." Another added, "Love you, big fella, but you're just mad Klay beat you to it." The resurfaced comments sparked accusations of attention-seeking, prompting O'Neal to clarify his intentions. He explained, "I was on the line and in the comments. Somebody asked me what I was doing, and I said, 'I'm watching the booty.' What do you mean, what am I doing? That's what twerking is for, right?" He insisted his remarks were not meant to be disrespectful, describing Megan as "athletic, so beautiful, and so gorgeous" and emphasizing that his words were "in a positive way." He's set to join Ernie Johnson, Kenny Smith, and Charles Barkley on ESPN's basketball broadcasts and has hinted at appearances on other network programs. Klay Thompson and Megan Thee Stallion have not publicly addressed O'Neal's remarks. Given the public's interest in Megan's dating history, especially following her legal issues with Tory Lanez, fans seem more focused on supporting the couple than engaging with O'Neal's critique. While Shaq's larger-than-life persona continues to stir conversation, his comments on this romance have only amplified the scrutiny he faces online. Also read: 'Leave my angel reese alone': Shaquille O'Neal threatens Robert Griffin III after racist Angel Reese post explodes online For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
