Shaquille O’Neal had one mission for Super Bowl 58 in Las Vegas, to meet Taylor Swift, and he accomplished it.
O’Neal, a four-time NBA champion, was one of many celebrities who watched live as Patrick Mahomes won his third championship in the NFL. But the highlight of the night for the big man was probably when he had his chance to interact with Swift, the pop star and global sensation who is dating Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce.
Before the game began, O’Neal told reporters he wanted to sit near Swift and planned to meet the singer for the first time so that he could “shake the hand” of greatness (via Page Six):
“If I see Taylor Swift and get to shake her hand, take a picture, I’ll be good … She’s a fabulous person. I’m happy for her. I’m proud of her. She’s done a lot. She’s definitely a cultural icon … I just want to shake the hand of greatness.”
During another interview, when asked if he was excited about the game, the Hall of Famer aid that he was “looking forward” to just shaking her hand.
According to USA TODAY reporter Josh Peter, however, Shaq was denied entry into Swift’s suite when he first attempted to visit:
“During the first half, O’Neal stopped by the suite and spoke to security standing outside. But he was denied entry.
A few minutes after the first half ended, Shaq circled back. And as he stood outside the area in front of the entrance to the suite, Jason Kelce emerged.
Jason, Travis Kelce’s brother who recently retired from the NFL, was clad in colorful Chiefs overalls. Shaq kissed the top of Kylie Kelce’s hand when he was introduced to Jason’s wife. Jason Kelce then embraced Shaq, and after a few moments of chatting, he was led inside the suite.”
Fortunately, however, Kelce’s brother Jason reportedly helped him out.
After the game, O’Neal posted a photo with a caption that indicated he had “finally met” Swift.
He also revealed that he gifted her with a custom Judith Lieber bag, which was shaped like a football and included a nod to Kelce’s number 87.
O’Neal told Us Weekly that he hopes that Swift and Kelce “last forever” and have beautiful children.
