WNBA rookie Angel Reese recently found herself in a playful moment with NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal, one that became the talk of the sports world. The 21-year-old Chicago Sky player placed a high-stakes bet with O’Neal—wagering $100,000 that he wouldn’t make a free throw.
Given Shaq’s well-known struggles at the free-throw line during his NBA career, it seemed like a safe gamble. After all, he retired with a career free-throw percentage of just under 53%, and in his worst season with the Miami Heat, he managed only 42.2%. But this time, the odds were not in her favor.
In front of a crowd of amused spectators, Shaq effortlessly made the shot. The moment was caught on video, and Reese shared it on Instagram, captioning it humorously, “I guess I owe him 100K 😭.” The video quickly made waves, highlighting the unexpected outcome and Reese’s lighthearted reaction to her loss.
The shot wasn’t just a make—it was a clean, impressive effort, defying the reputation that once made him the target of the infamous “Hack-a-Shaq” strategy.
Throughout his NBA career, opposing teams often used that tactic to exploit his free-throw struggles.
Had Shaq been able to maintain a free-throw shooting percentage of even 65-70%, he might have scored significantly more points. But on this day, he silenced the critics—at least for one throw.
Reese’s bet, though playful, speaks to the friendly bond she has developed with O’Neal. Both are LSU alumni, with O’Neal frequently referring to Reese as “my girl,” signaling a sense of pride and support for the rising WNBA star.
Their connection has become a popular subject among fans, adding a personal touch to the larger sports narrative. Given their camaraderie, it’s unlikely Shaq would actually hold Reese to the $100,000 wager—more of a playful challenge than a serious demand.
Interestingly, O’Neal has also spoken highly of Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark, who just earned the WNBA Rookie of the Year title, receiving 66 out of 67 votes. Angel Reese, notably, was the one who cast the other vote, showcasing her respect for her competitor.
Shaq, for his part, acknowledged Clark’s talents while continuing to champion Reese. It’s a dynamic that has kept fans entertained and engaged, highlighting the intersection of competition, camaraderie, and lighthearted moments that make the sports world come alive.
