Earlier today, NBA legend and Hall of Fame player Shaquille O’Neal announced that he had joined the Papa John’s Board of Directors, and will soon be investing in nine franchises in Atlanta.

In a statement announcing the addition, Shaq expressed his love for the Papa John’s brand, dating back to earlier this year when he and the company partnered on a special “Shaq-eroni” pizza during the Shaq’s Fun House event in Atlanta. “One key component of my success is only investing in companies and products that I believe in – I’m a big fan of Papa John’s. I love that they are committed to making pizza with high-quality ingredients” said. O’Neal.

Article Continues Below
More NBA News
Jun 5, 2025; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Indiana Pacers center Myles Turner (33) reaches for the ball against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the fourth quarter in game one of the 2025 NBA Finals at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
Pacers-Thunder Game 1 hits record low in views for FinalsZachary Draves ·
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver walk through the audience during the 2025 NBA Draft Lottery at McCormick Place.
6 NBA teams that never drafted with the first overall pickSpencer See ·
LeBron James, Stephen (Steph) Curry, who may be heading to an ESPN NBA broadcasting booth after they retire, after Lakers-Warriors game on December 25, 2024.
ESPN has ‘hopeful’ LeBron James, Stephen Curry wishAndrew Korpan ·
Sep 24, 2013; Sacramento, CA, USA; Sacramento Kings minority owner Shaquille O'Neal talks to the media after the press conference at Kings Practice Facility. Mandatory Credit: Ed Szczepanski-Imagn Images
Shaq’s ex-nemesis shows up at Game 1Zachary Draves ·
Shaquille O'Neal Lakers NBA
Shaquille O’Neal hilariously crashes NBA Countdown set before Game 1Josh Davis ·
Oct 1, 2023; Houston, Texas, USA; Former Houston Texans JJ Watt listens during his Ring Of Honor Ceremony at halftime during the game between the Texans and Pittsburgh Steelers at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn Images
JJ Watt issues nostalgic demand to the NBA FinalsZachary Draves ·

“Because of my background, I know that behind every large company, there are thousands of people that put their heart and soul into the business. Papa John’s is no different, and it struck a chord with me that the company is putting in the work to do better within its walls and in the communities it serves across the country. After spending time with Steve and some of the leaders at Papa John’s, I know the company is destined for great success – and you know how I feel about winning!”

While he is more famously known as one of the most dominant players to ever step onto a basketball court, O’Neal’s business ventures are also part of his legacy. Aside from his recent foray into pizza, Shaq also is in investor in other food companies, various real estate holdings, and most famously was able to secure stock in Google prior to the company going public. It’s safe to say that Shaq has managed to make himself a lot of money outside of basketball, and it looks like this partnership with Papa John’s will continue that.