With just a few days to go before Christmas, it’s no surprise that the Shaq-a-Claus sightings are coming in fast!
The big fella has played on the biggest stages in sports, but some of his most meaningful moments continue to happen far away from the spotlight. This week, the NBA legend brought his now-famous Shaq-A-Claus holiday magic to DeKalb School of the Arts, turning an ordinary school day into an unforgettable celebration of joy, generosity, and hope.
For more than a hundred students, Christmas came early. The school gym was transformed into a high-energy winter wonderland, complete with music, excitement, and a surprise guest towering over everyone else in the room. Shaq-A-Claus arrived with his team of helpers, greeting students with digital gift cards, contests, prizes, and plenty of laughter.
The scene was classic Shaq — big smiles, big energy, and even bigger heart.
While the gifts were exciting, the deeper message was just as important. Shaq made it clear that these events are never about him alone. Much like his championship teams in the NBA, he emphasized the power of teamwork behind the scenes.
“Some cheer, spread some love, spread some joy — but it’s not all about me,” Shaq told FOX 5. “In order to win the championship, you have to have great teammates. These are my teammates right here.”
Those teammates include corporate sponsors, community organizations, volunteers, and longtime partners who help make Shaq-A-Claus possible year after year. Their support allows Shaq to reach schools and communities across the country, delivering not just gifts, but experiences kids remember for a lifetime.
At the heart of it all is Shaq’s mother, Dr. Lucille O’Neal, who he credits as the inspiration behind the entire program. According to Shaq, Shaq-A-Claus exists because of lessons she instilled long before basketball fame entered the picture.
“Everything I’ve done, she says you should do this, you should do this,” Shaq explained. “She said to me when I retired, it costs you nothing to be nice — blessing people.”
That philosophy has shaped decades of philanthropic work. From paying off layaway bills to surprising families with cars, funding education programs, and supporting Boys & Girls Clubs nationwide, Shaq’s generosity has become as legendary as his dominance in the paint.
And for the students at DeKalb School of the Arts, the surprises aren’t over.
Shaq announced plans to return in the new year with even more gifts — including 300 pairs of Reebok sneakers, Shaq-branded shoes, and possibly 300 MacBook Pros to help students with their education and future careers. In a move that blended motivation with generosity, Shaq also pledged $3,000 to the student who earns the highest final exam score.
It was a reminder that Shaq-A-Claus isn’t just about the holidays — it’s about investing in kids, encouraging excellence, and showing what’s possible when kindness leads the way.
For these students, the season didn’t just bring gifts. It brought belief.