Shakel O’Neill defended his master’s degree, and also insulted Barkley right on stage.

Shaquille O’Neal graduated with a master’s degree and hosted a show during the graduation ceremony, where he teased Charles Barkley. The basketball legend, who once left Louisiana State University to play in the NBA at a younger age, kept his promise to his mother. In 2000, he returned to his alma mater and received his bachelor’s degree. Now, he has officially upgraded his academic status. 26 years later, the “Lakers legend” became an alumnus of his alma mater—this was his second degree. The four-time NBA champion dedicated his thesis to the parallels between sports coaching and the poem “Odyssey”. In the future, O’Neal hopes to become a mentor for young athletes, helping them with matters related to psychology. The ceremony wasn’t without its humorous moments. The organizers took advantage of the long-standing media relationship between the two individuals. During the graduation ceremony, Shaquille announced, “I hate Charles Barkley.” The two men had a fight in 1999, but they resolved their conflict—thanks to their mothers. Now, they’re friends and co-hosts of a TV show together. Stay informed about all the latest sports-related news and analysis.