Shaquille O’Neal did it for his mom. On Saturday night, the NBA legend hosted his third annual event, aptly named The Event, to raise money for his Shaquille O’Neal Foundation — and the basketball star generously emptied his own wallet during the evening.
During a live auction held as part of the event, O’Neal paid $20,000 so his mom, Lucille O’Neal, could sit at one table on stage for a concert featuring Jennifer Hudson, Dan+Shay, John Legend and Anderson Paak.
“Come up there mom,” O’Neal, 51, said as a table was being set up on the stage at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Lucille gladly obeyed and danced for Paak, much to the delight of her famous son.
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Shaquille O’Neal (right) and Lucille O’Neal at the HBO premiere of the four-part documentary “SHAQ” at the Illuminarium on November 14, 2022 in Atlanta, Georgia.
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The basketball legend also bid $50,000 and won a lavish vacation to Bora Bora, ensuring he played his part with a total of $70,000 at the dinner to raise money for his eponymous foundation.
While Legend, Hudson and Dan + Shay were the musical headliners, the evening was really focused on O’Neal’s philanthropy.
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Launching his organization in 2019, O’Neal partnered with the Boys & Girls Club and school communities in Las Vegas and Atlanta — two organizations close to the NBA legend’s heart, according to the foundation’s website — and works to create opportunities for disadvantaged youth. service.
At the Event, an annual event, guests had the opportunity to bid alongside O’Neal on a variety of lavish items during a live auction, including one lot on Saturday to spend time with the basketball star at his home. Another item included a round of golf with Mark Wahlberg and hanging out with David Beckham at an Inter Miami soccer game, which went for $40,000. In addition to the auction, the fun event included a live concert and private dinner.
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haquille O’Neal speaks on stage during an event hosted by the Shaquille O’Neal Foundation on October 7, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
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“We raised the bar last year, and The Third Event promises to do the same,” O’Neal said on his foundation’s website ahead of Saturday’s fundraiser. “I am so grateful to our entertainers who have once again donated their time. I know they will create a night of incredible music and comedy in a true testament to the power of unity to make a difference in children’s lives. I am also excited to see familiar faces and new fans come together in the spirit of compassion that need to give back to the community. Make this another night to remember!”
In 2021, as a result of auction purchases and ticket sales, The Event raised $2.9 million for underserved children. In 2022, that number was eclipsed, with $3.15 million raised. The amount collected in 2023 was not disclosed.
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Source: HIS Education