The sports world, as well as the world in general, was struck with despair when the news broke that boxing legend Muhammad Ali had passed away at the age of 74.

Athletes, celebrities, and all kinds of people paid their respects to the Greatest.

Prior to Game 2 of the NBA Finals, Lakers legend Shaquille O'Neal wore a “GOAT” shirt to honor the Ali.

Grant Hill wore one as well, paying tribute to the “Greatest of All-Time.”

During NBA TV's pre-game show on Sunday evening, O'Neal shared his favorite Muhammad Ali story with the viewing audience.

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Photo: Boban Marjanovic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Shaquille O’Neal

Derick Quinanola ·

The story begins around the 50-second mark in the video:

“He was the most compelling character boxing has ever seen. Civil rights leader, philanthropist, he did so many things that have been untalked about.

“My favorite Muhammad Ali story, in Kuwait, 1980. There were 15 hostages. Ali goes over there by his self, gets the hostages freed. He was all about peace, he was a great man. For me and my household, when my father couldn't get through to me – as a medium-level juvenile delinquent – he would always show me Muhammad Ali clips, would always show me his quotes. And he said ‘look, Muhammad Ali comes from the same place you come.'”

h/t to Fox Sports.

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