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

“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.