Shaquille O’Neal, the legendary NBA player, recently opened up about his enduring passion for the Dallas Cowboys, a love that began long before he became a basketball icon. During an engaging conversation on the “Tommy Talks” podcast, O’Neal shared how his affection for “America’s Team” was sparked during his childhood in San Antonio, Texas—a city known for its deep-rooted football culture.
Growing up, O’Neal was surrounded by football fervor, and he quickly became captivated by the Cowboys, idolizing the team’s star players such as Emmitt Smith, Troy Aikman, Michael Irvin, and Deion Sanders. However, it was Ed “Too Tall” Jones, the towering defensive lineman, who truly inspired him. Shaq humorously recounted, “I used to tell people that ‘Too Tall’ Jones is my dad. That motivated me and made me a Cowboys fan.” This lighthearted admission underscores the impact that Jones had on O’Neal’s early sports fandom.
Jones, who stood at 6’9″, initially pursued basketball before making a name for himself in football, being selected first overall by the Cowboys in the 1974 NFL Draft. Over his impressive 15-season career, he became a dominant force on the field, helping lead the Cowboys to victory in Super Bowl XII and solidifying his legacy as one of the NFL’s great defenders.
Despite the Cowboys’ struggles in recent years, with their last Super Bowl victory dating back to 1995, Shaquille O’Neal remains steadfast in his loyalty to the team. “I’m not a fair-weather fan. I’m with the Cowboys no matter what, until the wheels fall off,” he declared. This unwavering commitment resonates with countless fans who continue to support the Cowboys through thick and thin, hoping for a return to glory.
In contrast to O’Neal’s steadfast loyalty, sports commentator Skip Bayless, also a devoted Cowboys fan, recently stirred some controversy by admitting that he finds more excitement in watching WNBA star Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever than his own team. “I’d rather watch Clark, even with her turnovers and risky shots. She excites me more than my Cowboys,” Bayless stated, highlighting the shifting dynamics of fan loyalty in today’s sports landscape.
As the 2025 NFL season unfolds, the Cowboys have experienced a mix of highs and lows, currently holding a record of 1-1 after a thrilling victory against the New York Giants followed by a loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. While some fans like Bayless may waver in their support, Shaquille O’Neal’s dedication remains firm, emphasizing that true fans stick with their teams through all seasons, regardless of the outcome.
O’Neal’s journey from a young football enthusiast to an NBA superstar serves as a reminder of the deep connections that sports can forge, transcending the boundaries of individual games. His love for the Cowboys not only reflects his personal history but also embodies the spirit of loyalty that characterizes many sports fans across the nation.
As the Cowboys continue their quest for a return to the top of the NFL, Shaquille O’Neal stands as a testament to the enduring passion of sports fandom, proving that true loyalty is about more than just winning—it’s about the love for the game and the memories created along the way. Whether the Cowboys rise to glory or face further challenges, O’Neal’s unwavering support will undoubtedly inspire many to stay true to their teams, no matter the circumstances.