Shaquille O’Neal threatens to cut LSU support and sends warning about something that could hurt the soul of college sports

Believes NIL’s shifting college sports into a business-first model

Shaquille O’NealLAPRESSE

Shaquille O’Neal didn’t mince words about the impact that the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) era is having on the student-athlete experience. While Shaq has previously applauded young athletes for finally having the opportunity to monetize their brands, his latest comments reveal growing concern over where things are headed.

For the 15-time NBA All-Star, loyalty and development matter more than quick wins or cash grabs-and he fears the current system is blurring those values.

“I told the people at LSU I’m not writing you guys a check if guys aren’t going to commit to us for 2-3 years,” O’Neal said on a recent episode of The Big Podcast With Shaq.

Shaq worries NIL is shifting college sports into a business-first model

The concern, Shaq explained, isn’t just about athletes making money. It’s about how that money is reshaping the entire college sports ecosystem-especially when it comes to the transfer portal.

“NIL, I think, is definitely gonna hurt people,” he said on the podcast. “For people that have nothing, when you get something, it takes the pressure off. But that something should be the final prize. The final prize should be the NBA.”

Since the NIL policy was introduced in 2021, athletes now have greater freedom than ever to capitalize on their fame.

“Guys are bouncing around just for the bag,” he lamented, suggesting that this new culture of opportunistic transfers is making it harder for high school athletes to break into the college ranks.

“I feel sorry for them.”

College sports broadcaster John Fanta, who joined the podcast, echoed O’Neal’s concern, questioning how long-term school pride and loyalty can survive in an era where athletes play for multiple programs.

“What happens 20 years from now, when you spend four years at four different places? Who do you have allegiance to? That should still matter,” Fanta said.