"He gives me $20,000 cash" - Ty Lue says Shaquille O'Neal saved his a** during the NBA lockout
Shaquille O'Neal is known for being generous to people, especially those in need. O'Neal also helped out his teammates during his NBA career, one particular example was when he gave rookie Ty Lue some cash.
In an appearance on "The Pivod Podcast," Lue discussed his first year in the league with the Lakers. It was a lockout and he had no money due to the situation. O'Neal recognized it and gave Lue around $20,000.
"Eddie Jones took me under his wing and showed me the ropes and taught me everything," Lue said. "The first week I got in town, he took me the Century Club and I met Shaq the first night. Shaq was like, 'Man, Glad to have you. Come to the house tomorrow and have a big meal, whatever, whatever.'
"So we go to Shaq's house the next day, he gives me $20,000 cash. He's like, 'I know you ain't got no money. I know it's a lockout. Take care of yourself.' That kind of helped me out. ... Shaq just made me feel welcome right away."
Channing Crowder had a follow-up question for Ty Lue about the money. Crowder asked the LA Clippers coach if he paid Shaquille O'Neal back the money he owed.
"No, he said he didn't want him back," Lue replied.
It was a tough situation for a rookie to be in, especially during a lockout. Lue was very lucky that O'Neal was generous enough to recognize his needs. The two played together for three seasons, winning two NBA championships in 2000 and 2001.
Lue went on to have an 11-year career in the NBA, primarily as a backup point guard. He also played for other teams such as the Washington Wizards, Orlando Magic, Houston Rockets, Atlanta Hawks and Dallas Mavericks.
After his playing career ended in 2009, Lue became an assistant coach for several teams. Lue started his coaching career with the Boston Celtics before stints with the LA Clippers and Cleveland Cavaliers.
Lue took over the head coaching job in Cleveland in the middle of the 2015-16 season wherein they went on to win a championship. He's now with the LA Clippers and is considered among the best coaches in the league.
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Shaquille O'Neal underwent hip surgery
Shaquille O'Neal recently underwent hip surgery, uploading a photo of himself lying on a hospital bed. His fans were scared that something bad happened to the LA Lakers legend, but he quickly clarified the situation with a hilarious reel on his Instagram.
"To all the people who are concerned," O'Neal wrote. "First let me start off by saying thank you. And lastly I am fine. Just had to get some BBL work done aka #hipreplacement, but yes I am fine, no need to worry."
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