Power of Partnership: Shaquille O’Neal and Finding the Perfect Fit

The next guest in my Power of Partnership series is the one and only Shaquille O’Neal. While Shaq is recognized as one of the best NBA players of all time, his résumé makes him a true multi-hyphenate. As a savvy businessman, an iconic media personality and even a DJ playing the world circuit as DJ Diesel, he’s a man of many talents.

Shaq has also been an important partner to JCPenney in our efforts to make fashion inclusive and accessible. In 2018, we launched the Shaquille O’Neal XLG line and Shaq was named the official ambassador for JCPenney’s Big and Tall business. Since then, his line has expanded along with our partnership.

Read on for our conversation on finding the perfect fit in a business partner, advice for those looking to mimic his success and how he’s liking life in Dallas-Fort Worth after his recent move to Texas.

Marc Rosen: How did your partnership with JCPenney begin?

Shaquille O’Neal: When I became an analyst on TNT and suits became my new uniform, it made me want to start my own line of tailored suits. I was looking for that perfect retailer and anyone who knows me, knows I need to have a personal connection with my partners. I felt that immediately with JCPenney. It’s hard for big guys to be able to find sizes they need off-the-rack, but JCPenney works hard to make special sizing available and accessible for everyone. We connected, and in 2018 I launched my XLG line and was named the official ambassador for JCPenney’s Big and Tall business. After six years together, we’ve extended the line to include sportswear and jewelry and I see a lot more coming in our future.

?MR: How has our partnership impacted you?

SO:? JCPenney has an iconic history. I think growing up, everyone has a JCPenney story – whether that was shopping for new gear for practice or the right clothes for the first day of school or a special look for a family wedding. It’s an incredible feeling to come full circle with a brand I’ve shopped my whole life and be able to make an impact. I’m honored to be a part of the next chapter of JCPenney’s story.

?MR: Tell me about your favorite JCPenney memory.

SO: I’ve had a lot of great memories with JCPenney over the years, but one that really stands out is the launch event of the XLG collection. A lot of time, energy and work went into the collection, and to finally be able to show it off to the world was a really good feeling.

MR: What advice would you give to others who want to follow in your success?

SO: Stay humble and embrace every opportunity. My career has taken me on journeys I could have only dreamed of, and I have only gotten this far with a determination to succeed and an open mind.

MR: Who do you look to for inspiration or mentorship?

SO: Over my career I’ve had so many mentors – some fellow players, coaches, teachers – but my biggest inspiration has always been my mother. She always has and always will be the one I turn to when I need advice.

I am also so fortunate to be in a position to mentor others and it’s something that’s really important to me. I’ve worked with the Boys & Girls Clubs for many years and recently launched a program for middle schoolers in Atlanta to help set them up for success. It’s important to me to give back to the communities that have meant so much to me throughout my life.

MR: Now for some rapid-fire questions. Favorite thing you’ve watched, read or listened to recently?

SO: Just finished up Hijack. Love Idris.

MR: Go-to comfort meal?

SO: The MDE from Big Chicken of course!

MR: You recently moved to Texas – what’s your favorite thing about living in DFW?

SO: I lived in San Antonio for a while when I was growing up and always loved Texas. The people are friendly and I feel so welcome here in the Dallas-Fort Worth Area.

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Shaquille O’Neal XLG is available to shop in JCPenney stores across the country and at jcpenney.com.