Shaquille O'Neal
Getty
Shaquille O'Neal delivered an act of kindness this week
Basketball Hall of Famer Shaquille O’Neal was a menacing force on the court, but he has often been praised for his gentle, giving nature off the court.
The multi-millionaire philanthropist helped uplift another family in need on Thursday.
O’Neal offered to cover the funeral expenses for Jada West, who was tragically killed during an after-school brawl.
West, 12, was taken to a hospital and died days after she collapsed in the street following a fistfight near a school bus stop in her Georgia neighborhood, according to police.
“No parent should ever have to bury their child,” O’Neal said.
Shaq Serves as Chief of Community Relations
Shaquille O'Neal
GettyShaquille O’Neal serves as the Chief of Community Relations for the Henry County Sheriff’s Office
The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office revealed the gesture shortly after West succumbed to her injuries.
The DCSO said O’Neal, who serves as Chief of Community Relations for the Henry County Sheriff’s Office, was heartbroken by the news and wanted to aid the West family by covering the funeral costs so they wouldn’t have to bear the burden.
“This story touched my heart the moment I saw it in the media,” O’Neal said.
“As a father, my heart goes out to Jada’s family. No parent should ever have to bury their child, and if there is anything I can do to ease even a small part of that burden, then it is the right thing to do.”
The former Los Angeles Lakers star urged those aware to keep the West family lifted in prayer.
“Our community must surround this family with love, support, and compassion during such a painful moment.”
The death of sixth grader Jada West is being investigated by police in suburban Villa Rica, about 30 miles west of Atlanta.
Police spokesperson Sgt. Spencer Crawford stated on Wednesday that investigators are awaiting autopsy results and examining evidence, including cellphone footage of the altercation.
He stated that police and prosecutors will meet later this week to determine whether to file charges.
Shaq Does Frequent Acts of Philanthropy
Shaquille O'Neal
GettyShaquille O’Neal has founded several annual programs that assist underprivileged youth with school supplies, meals, toys and technology
Covering the funeral costs for Jada West is far from Shaq’s sole act of kindness.
The three-time Finals MVP, who made over $280 million during his 19-year career, has frequently sought ways to uplift his community.
Since 1997, the two-time scoring champion has spearheaded Shaq-A-Claus. The annual Christmas event provides tens of thousands of toys, clothing, meals and more to underprivileged children.
Additionally, his Shaq-to-School program provides backpacks and school supplies to students facing socioeconomic challenges.
In 2025, construction began for the Shaquille O’Neal Youth Complex in Las Vegas. The $24 million facility will partner closely with Boys & Girls Club of America to serve communities in southern Nevada.
The complex is expected to open in 2026.
Aside from his formal, aforementioned projects, O’Neal is known for tipping restaurant workers excessively and purchasing shoes for kids at random.
Shaq received the Muhammad Ali Humanitarian of the Year Award in 2024 for raising millions through charity work.