In a surprising turn of events, Natalie Nunn shared an intriguing story about NBA superstar Shaquille O’Neal during an appearance on Cam Newton’s Funky Friday Podcast. Nunn revealed that O’Neal gifted her a car, marking a significant act of kindness that caught everyone’s attention.
Natalie Nunn’s Car Gift from Shaquille O’Neal
Nunn, a reality TV star, stated that O’Neal bought her a 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle, valued at over $21,000. This revelation stunned Cam Newton, who initially assumed there was a romantic connection between Nunn and O’Neal.
Details of the Gift
- Car Model: 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
- Value: $21,000
- Time of Gift: When Nunn was a college student at USC
- O’Neal’s Status: Playing for the Lakers
Nunn clarified that she and O’Neal never dated. She mentioned that the gift came during a time when O’Neal was actively playing with the Lakers and she was enrolled at the University of Southern California (USC) as a member of the women’s soccer team.
The Connection with USC
Being in close proximity to the Lakers’ home arena, Crypto.com Arena, made it likely for NBA players to engage with local student-athletes. Nunn’s athletic background and O’Neal’s generosity hint at a supportive relationship rather than a romantic one.
Despite her explanations, Newton expressed skepticism, questioning the circumstances surrounding the gift. O’Neal, known for his philanthropy, has extended help to many young athletes, including a recent gesture where he gifted a car to Tamara Humphries in 2025. This pattern of his charitable actions indicates that Shaquille O’Neal’s kindness transcends mere friendship, focusing on uplifting aspiring athletes.
The dialogue between Nunn and Newton was filled with intrigue, showcasing a blend of humor and curiosity about the past connections among these celebrities. It highlights O’Neal’s legacy as not just an athlete, but also a generous figure in the lives of many young individuals. These gestures amplify the narrative of sports figures who utilize their influence to support and empower others.
