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Since retiring from the NBA, Shaquille O'Neal has done everything he can to be an ambassador for the sport. He recently shone light on the WNBA as the league continues to grow.
Over the past few years, the WNBA has seen a sizable increase in attendance and popularity. The boom is continuing in 2024 thanks to a handful of rookies from the 2024 draft.
Among those to help showcase this steady growth is Shaquille O'Neal. He re-posted a photo on his Instagram story that highlighted Angel Reese and the rookie class.
Caitlin Clark had most of the buzz entering the season, but she is far from the only standout rookie. Reese is starting to find her stride with the Chicago Sky, recording a double-double in her last three games.
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Among the other rookies helping grow the popularity of the WNBA is Cameron Brink. Since being drafted No. 2 overall by the LA Sparks, the former national champion has impressed on both ends of the floor. Brink is currently averaging 8.2 points, 5.9 rebounds and 2.7 blocks.
Also read: Angel Reese embraces rookie humility after record breaking back-to-back domination
Shaquille O'Neal and Angel Reese have built a strong bond
Over the past few years, Shaquille O'Neal and Angel Reese have built a close relationship. They've gotten so close that the NBA legend even walked her out to center court during her senior night at LSU.
Shaq and Reese's relationship started to take off when she first arrived at LSU. Before going on to be a No. 1 pick in the NBA, the Hall of Fame center also spent his college years at the university.
During an interview with "People" magazine, Shaquille O'Neal opened up on what drew him and Reese together. To him, it stemmed much deeper than just being an LSU alumni. Part of it for Shaq is that he has children around the same age as her.
While speaking about Reese, Shaq touched on the message he had for her when she was drafted by the Chicago Sky this spring. Upon making it to the WNBA, he made sure to let her know that he was proud of her.
"She's the same age as my children, so I only want the best for her," Shaq said.
"And when you have daughters, you know how to use that calm voice, the first thing I told her is I was proud of her."
As Reese continues to leave her mark at the professional level, it's evident she has a larger-than-life supporter and mentor in her corner.
