We know the big guy likes his cars and trucks… especially – of course – big ones! This year, for O’Neal’s 53rd birthday, he got a very special “big” gift from the Cali car dealership that does modifications and other work for almost everything he drives. Effortless Motors, known for crafting custom rides, gifted the NBA icon a brand-new 2025 Chevrolet Silverado—an emotional moment that left the Hall of Famer visibly touched.
Effortless CEO Ahmad Abdelrahman has built a solid relationship with Shaq over the years, delivering multiple customized vehicles to the basketball legend. O’Neal has frequently praised the company on social media, even giving them a shoutout when they secured him an early Tesla Cybertruck widebody. But this time, the dealership took things to another level, surprising him with a heartfelt birthday gift instead of just another transaction.
The Silverado, valued at $37,000, is exactly the kind of bold and rugged vehicle that fits Shaq’s larger-than-life personality. Fans are already buzzing about how Effortless Motors will modify the truck to match the Big Diesel’s signature style.
In a video shared by Abdelrahman, the touching exchange was captured during a phone call. “You’ve done a lot for me all year, and this is the perfect day to return the favor,” Ahmad told Shaq, unveiling the big surprise.
True to his fun-loving nature, the four-time NBA champion jokingly yelled, “Why?!” while pretending to cry on the call. Abdelrahman played right along, encouraging the moment by saying, “Let it out.”
What made this gesture even more special is that it marked the first time Shaq ever accepted a free car from the dealership. The 15-time All-Star has always followed a strict “nothing for free” rule with Effortless Motors, insisting on paying for every car he’s purchased. But for his milestone birthday, the dealership finally found a way to show their appreciation for his ongoing support.
Shaquille O’Neal’s relationship with Effortless Motors began in an unexpected way. Back in 2023, the dealership made headlines after claiming they had set up LeBron James with a luxury car. However, LeBron later denied any affiliation, calling them out for using his name without permission.
While the PR stunt could have backfired, it ended up catching Shaq’s attention. Believing the dealership had actually provided LeBron with a Bugatti, he became intrigued. “My thing was, Bron is 6’9’’, 6’10’’. I know ‘cause he’s a friend of mine. If he can fit into this car and he don’t want it, I’mma call old boy up,” Shaq recalled on an episode of The Big Podcast.
Another of Shaq’s favorite rides…
Even after learning the truth, Shaq saw potential in the young business and decided to support it—but on his terms. “I see a kid on the internet who’s just starting his business and I support him… He’s like, ‘I want to give you this free car.’ I’m like, ‘Bro, just be my friend, I don’t want nothing for free,’” Shaq explained.
That mindset remained firm even when Effortless Motors secured him an early Cybertruck. Impressed by the deal, Shaq responded with generosity—gifting the dealership one of his prized customized Hellcats. “Since you gave me a great deal on the Cybertruck, Hellcat is yours,” he said, handing over one of his high-end muscle cars.
What started as a business interaction has since evolved into a genuine friendship built on trust and respect. The Silverado birthday gift is proof of that bond. With Shaq’s love for custom rides, fans can’t wait to see how Effortless Motors will transform his new truck.
Perhaps this is also the dealership’s way of settling up on their $100,000 All-Star bet with Shaq. Either way, one thing is certain—the Big Diesel’s already legendary garage just got even more impressive.