As of this posting date, the Men’s Final Four Championship basketball game is tonight in San Antonio, Texas. Go Gators! It’s been a great tournament, and now it all comes down to this one last game. That “One Shining Moment,” as the song talks about. You’ll hear it tonight, for sure.
During the excitement of the 2025 NCAA Men’s Final Four in San Antonio, basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal made a heartfelt return to his alma mater, Robert G. Cole High School. O’Neal, who led the Cougars to an impeccable 36-0 season and clinched the 1989 state championship, surprised students with an unexpected visit. The atmosphere was electric as he engaged with the student body, even orchestrating a friendly shooting competition between two seniors, showcasing his enduring commitment to the school’s community.
Reflecting on his time in San Antonio, O’Neal has often expressed deep appreciation for the city’s rich Mexican culture. In an October episode of the Creativo podcast, he reminisced about his first experience at Fiesta, the city’s vibrant 10-day festival celebrating its diverse heritage. This immersion left a lasting impression, fostering his love for the local traditions and cuisine.
Beyond his visit to Cole High School, O’Neal’s presence in San Antonio during the Final Four was also tied to his latest entrepreneurial venture. His Shaq-A-Licious XL Gummies were named the official gummy of March Madness, a testament to his ever-expanding brand. These oversized treats come in two enticing varieties: the Originals, featuring gummies shaped like O’Neal’s face in peach, berry punch, and orange flavors; and the Sours, inspired by his iconic nicknames, with shapes and flavors like green watermelon, pineapple, and mixed berry.
Fans attending the Final Four festivities had the opportunity to sample these gummies firsthand. At the Reese’s College All-Star Game on April 4, the Shaq-A-Licious brand enhanced the fan experience with product samplings, exclusive giveaways, and interactive on-court activities. This initiative was part of Hershey’s multi-year partnership with the NCAA, CBS Sports, and Warner Bros. Discovery Sports, aiming to elevate game-day snacking for basketball enthusiasts nationwide.
Furthering his commitment to the San Antonio community, O’Neal collaborated with Operation Homefront, a local nonprofit dedicated to supporting military families. Given O’Neal’s personal connection to the military—having lived on a local base during his youth—this partnership held special significance, underscoring his dedication to giving back to the communities that shaped him.
O’Neal’s return to San Antonio during the Final Four was more than just a trip down memory lane; it was a celebration of his roots, a showcase of his entrepreneurial spirit, and a heartfelt contribution to the community that played a pivotal role in his journey.