Shaq, Candace Parker Shared Such a Sweet Moment, and NBA Fans Loved It

One week removed from announcing her intention to retire from the WNBA after 16 seasons, Candace Parker was named the president of Adidas Women's Basketball earlier this week. Her new role will give her a place in product development with the apparel brand.
Shaquille O'Neal has shared a special friendship with Parker over the years, serving as a mentor to the retired star through her basketball journey. On Wednesday night, Inside the NBA interviewed Parker about her new role, and Shaq expressed how proud he was of her.
This moment between Shaq and Candace 🥹❤️ pic.twitter.com/4tcwhWGItt
— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) May 9, 2024
Parker spoke about how O'Neal mentored her both on the court with her game, and off the court with her business interests. Their special moment captivated basketball fans on social media.
Here are some of the best reactions to the interview:
Love to see it. ♥️ https://t.co/8wMtJZ14Nk
— Allison Bell (@Allie_8985) May 9, 2024
Their friendship so beautiful https://t.co/E9xBGwwIiM
— Chris Williamson (@CWilliamson44) May 9, 2024
Ya love to see it. Two legends. @SHAQ @Candace_Parker — you're both doing it your way. https://t.co/QRv57Rtcab
— Alexis Ohanian 🇦🇲 (@alexisohanian) May 9, 2024
Nothing like real friends 🥺 https://t.co/KMQqGhqgW6
— Shanel (@Nel_CC6) May 9, 2024
These my GOATs. https://t.co/skBpF05SL5
— V (@VallyOMally) May 9, 2024
SUPER WHOLESOME https://t.co/OXsVxJxME5
— Gabriel (@gabreezy8) May 9, 2024

Mike McDaniel is a staff writer on the Breaking and Trending News team at Sports Illustrated, where he has worked since January 2022. His work has been featured at InsideTheACC.com, SB Nation, FanSided and more. McDaniel hosts the Hokie Hangover Podcast, covering Virginia Tech athletics, as well as Basketball Conference: The ACC Football Podcast. Outside of work, he is a husband and father, and an avid golfer.
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