The one-time NBA superstar and basketball commentator, Shaquille O’Neal (“Shaq”), is under investigation for an incident that occurred outside Turner Studios in Atlanta, GA on March 19th. An Atlanta news station obtained a police report detailing an alleged assault between Shaq and Robert Williams, a co-worker, outside of Turner Studios. After his 2011 retirement, Shaq signed on with Turner Sports and joined “Inside the NBA” as an NBA commentator.
According to the police report, Williams stated that Shaq “ran out of a room and hit me with a tackle punch to the back knocking me down and falling on top of me injuring my neck and back.” No one called the police that night. Williams’ attorney stated that surgery was required for the injuries Williams sustained from the incident.
Shaq has not been charged with a crime. Atlanta police are still investigating the incident. Once the investigation is closed, Atlanta police will determine whether charges will be filed, and whether it will be reviewed by the DA’s office.
Shaq’s lawyer issued a statement saying the incident “was nothing more than horseplay. No one intended for anyone to get injured.” Shaq has been long known for his good-humored personality and love for pranks and hijinks on staff and fellow teammates. However, if criminal charges are pressed, this will be no laughing matter for the former NBA superstar.
Shaquille O’Neal under investigation for alleged assault
Shaq lawyer calls incident horseplay