How quickly did Shaquille O'Neal spend his first million dollars?

Shaquille O'Neal spent his first million dollars in approximately 45 minutes.

What did Shaquille O'Neal buy with his first million dollars?

He bought three cars, jewelry, and gifts for friends and family.

What financial lesson did Shaquille O'Neal learn early on?

Shaquille O'Neal learned a critical lesson about financial management after nearly going broke from impulsive spending.

Home / Sports / Shaq's Million-Dollar Dash: First Check Spent in Under an Hour

Shaq's Million-Dollar Dash: First Check Spent in Under an Hour

9 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Shaquille O'Neal spent his first million dollars in approximately 45 minutes.
He purchased three cars, jewelry, and gifts shortly after receiving the check.
A bank warning revealed he was nearly broke after taxes and fees.

Shaq's Million-Dollar Dash: First Check Spent in Under an Hour

Shaquille O'Neal's professional basketball career began with an extraordinary financial event. Shortly after being selected in the 1992 draft by the Orlando Magic, Shaq received a million-dollar check from a sports card brand for endorsing their product. This substantial sum was quickly spent, marking a dramatic shift from his previous financial reality.

Within approximately 45 minutes, O'Neal had purchased multiple cars, including dream models for himself and his family, along with considerable jewelry and gifts for friends. This impulsive spending spree left him with significantly less than expected once taxes and fees were accounted for.

The immediate aftermath saw a stark financial reality check when his bank alerted him to his dwindling funds. This early lesson in fiscal responsibility, though costly, shaped his later understanding of financial management as he evolved into a successful businessman and investor.