Shaquille O’Neal steps in to help former Mizzou center pass police exam
By Sydney Hunte
Published:
Shaquille O’Neal has long been known as one of the most charitable athletes, both current and former, out there. It’s not unusual to see the Hall of Famer help pay off layaway items at stores or give away toys and clothing to the less fortunate.
O’Neal stepped in once more to help a former Mizzou center as he looks to pass the police exam in Kemah, Texas.
Jordan Wilmore played in 18 games across two seasons at Mizzou before a season at Northwestern State and a season at Austin Peay. Instead of looking to turn pro, however, he turned his sights to becoming a police officer, despite his 7’3″ height and people encouraging him to pursue a basketball career.
When O’Neal discovered that Wilmore came a point away from passing the exam, he offered to help. Over the next five months, he’ll cover Wilmore’s expenses while the 24-year-old focuses on his studies — in hopes of passing the exam the next time.
“I’ll be on you, brother. Make sure you get it done,” O’Neal told Wilmore.
O’Neal has a police background himself as a reserve officer at various departments across the country. He’ll now pitch in to help Wilmore reach his dream of entering the force one day.
Sydney is an Atlanta-based journalist who has covered everything from SEC and ACC football to MLS, the U.S. men's national soccer team and professional tennis. His work has appeared on such platforms as SB Nation, Cox Media Group and FanSided.
