Entertainment

Shaq Provides 'Backup' To Florida Officers For Pickup Game With Kids

Viral video prompts NBA great Shaquille O'Neal to surprise Officer Bobby White and a group of kids with a pickup game in Gainesville, Florida.

Shaq Provides 'Backup' To Florida Officers For Pickup Game With Kids
Gainesville Police Department
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Remember when a police officer got a noise complaint about some kids playing basketball in the street, and instead of telling them off, jumps into the game — even lowering the rim to throw down a dunk. (Video via Gainesville Police Department)

Right at the end of the video he says he’ll be back again soon. 

"I’ll try and get some backup, and we’ll get a little game going tomorrow," Officer Bobby White said.

Well, Officer White made good on his word, and let’s just say the "backup" he promised didn't need a lower rim. (Video via Gainesville Police Department)

"Holy crap, you’re huge!" one kid said after meeting Shaquille O’Neal. 

NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal saw the video online and took a trip down to Gainesville, Florida, to surprise Officer White and the basketball-playing kids, and soon, the game was on.

O’Neal, who was a reserve police officer, wasn’t there to just show off his dazzling post moves. He also delivered some valuable advice to his young fans in the game. 

"I will be a leader and not a follower," O’Neal said, with the kids repeating after him. "I will respect my peers, my elders and especially my parents."

Looks like a fun afternoon for all involved. Wonder how that neighbor feels.

This video includes images from Getty Images.