Autor/-in: Shaquille O'Neal

Shaquille O'Neal is one of the world’s most successful athletes-turned-businesspeople, whose accomplishments on and off the court have translated into his highly sought-after consumer brand. As an entrepreneur, sports analyst, DJ, restaurateur, and brand ambassador, O’Neal brings his signature “Business of Fun” mantra to each of his endeavors.

The fifteen-time NBA All-Star’s unprecedented athletic career spanned nearly two decades and earned him countless awards and honors, including NBA Most Valuable Player, NBA Rookie of the Year, four NBA championships, and a first ballot NBA Hall of Famer. Currently, O’Neal is an analyst on TNT’s Emmy Award–winning Inside the NBA. O’Neal, who has a PhD in leadership and education, established The Shaquille O’Neal Foundation, which provides resources for underserved youth. He also gives back through a number of annual philanthropic programs, including Shaq-to-School, Shaqsgiving, and Shaq-a-Claus.

The launch of his Las Vegas eatery Big Chicken further elevated O’Neal’s visibility as a successful restaurateur. In 2015, O’Neal partnered with Authentic Brands Group (ABG), a brand development, marketing, and entertainment company. The transformative alliance focuses on managing and growing O’Neal’s brand around the world and building on his legacy through strategic partnerships that tap into his tremendous personality and broad appeal.

Rachel Holtzman is a former book editor turned cookbook coauthor.

Matthew Silverman and Matthew Piekarski are Shaquille O’Neal’s executive chef partners.

Eva Kolenko is a food-centric, lifestyle, portrait, and travel photographer whose work has been featured in many print and digital advertising campaigns, magazines, and cookbooks. She is based in the San Francisco Bay Area, where she also pursues her passion for kitchen gardening.