Shaq’s already-packed schedule just got another high-profile addition. The NBA legend turned business mogul will be the keynote speaker at the 41st Annual PA Chamber Dinner, taking place Monday, October 6, 2025, at the iconic Hershey Lodge in Pennsylvania.
“This is BIG news, literally and figuratively,” said PA Chamber President and CEO Luke Bernstein. “Shaquille O’Neal’s larger-than-life presence, incredible business acumen, community-minded spirit, and infectious energy make him the perfect headliner for Pennsylvania’s premier business event.”
O’Neal, a 15-time NBA All-Star, MVP, and four-time NBA champion, is no stranger to big moments—and that includes beyond the court. Since retiring from basketball, he’s built an empire that stretches across industries: from entertainment to food, tech, philanthropy, and everything in between. His booming business career follows his personal motto: “The Business of Fun.”
Attendees can expect more than just motivational quotes. With a PhD in Leadership and Education and years of experience navigating the business world, Shaq plans to deliver hard-earned lessons with his trademark humor and charisma.
“Success in business, like basketball, takes teamwork, hustle, and heart,” said O’Neal. “I’m looking forward to sharing what I’ve learned on and off the court at the PA Chamber Annual Dinner.”
The PA Chamber of Business and Industry is the Commonwealth’s largest business organization, representing companies across all sectors and sizes. Their annual dinner is widely seen as the state’s premier networking event for executives, entrepreneurs, and policymakers.
In addition to his well-known presence on TNT’s Emmy Award-winning Inside the NBA, Shaq has become a powerhouse in the world of entertainment and branding. As DJ Diesel, he headlines his own SHAQ’s Bass All-Stars Festival and Shaq’s Fun House—massive events that blend music, carnival rides, and celebrity appearances. His DJ business has gone global, adding yet another layer to the Shaq brand.
O’Neal’s culinary venture, Big Chicken, continues to grow at lightning speed with over 350 locations in development worldwide, including several in Pennsylvania. The brand blends comfort food with Shaq’s larger-than-life personality and is expanding rapidly into both traditional and non-traditional restaurant settings.
Shaq has also partnered with Pennsylvania’s own Hershey Company to launch Shaq-A-Licious XL Gummies, which have already sold more than 10 million bags—a sweet success by any measure.
Off the court and out of the spotlight, O’Neal’s philanthropic efforts are just as impressive. Through The Shaquille O’Neal Foundation, he supports underserved youth and helps them gain access to the tools they need to succeed. Programs like Shaq-to-School and Shaq-a-Claus have become annual traditions that make a real impact across the country.
Whether he’s spinning tracks as DJ Diesel, dropping business gems on podcasts, or handing out toys during the holidays, Shaq proves time and again he’s much more than a basketball player. This fall, he’ll bring that same energy to the Hershey Lodge for what promises to be a slam dunk evening for Pennsylvania’s business community.