Basketball star, Shaquille O’Neal (a.k.a. Shaq) made a surprise visit to Portledge School on Wednesday, December 7, 2011. Standing 7-feet, 1-inch tall, Shaq spoke to over 450 students and adults of all ages about his career as well as the importance of doing one’s best and taking advantage of all opportunities.

Surprised students cheered loudly as he walked into Wellington Gymnasium as the Portledge Jazz Band performed. Head of School, Steven Hahn, introduced the basketball star, who has also been involved in the music, film and book publishing worlds. Shaq shared stories about his basketball career but mostly asked students of all ages to stand next to him, announce what they wanted to be when they grew up, and ask him questions. He even challenged several middle and upper school students to shoot foul shots, and a few lucky winners received prizes, including tickets to an upcoming Knicks game. Two seniors serenaded Shaq with an animated version of “That’s How I Beat Shaq,” by Aaron Carter. True to form, Shaq joined in.

The students were so enthralled with his charm, personality, sense of purpose and humor, and all-around presence that one lower school student said she “will remember this day forever.” A couple of lucky students received autographed copies of his new book, Shaq Uncut, and others were able to pose for pictures with him.   

The Portledge community is grateful to Tiffany and Al Palagonia, Portledge parents and CEO of Apollo Jets, for making Shaq’s memorable visit to school possible.

Click here to view pictures.

To watch News 12 segment, click here (but you must be a Cablevision subscriber).

To read the Newsday article, click here.