Shaquille O’Neal is a colossus among mankind. The big man is known as Superman for a good reason. The 7-foot-tall giant was a powerhouse that opponents could never deal with. His brute strength paired with excellent footwork made him unstoppable. Prime Shaq was considered a player against whom no coach’s strategy succeeded as he wrought havoc in the paint.

Shaq’s massive stature dwarfed an average NBA player. So picture how short another regular person would appear standing shoulder to shoulder with the Lakers legend. This was precisely what happened when The Big Diesel met the racing legend, Danica Patrick.

Shaq was a prominent figure in the July 2013 NASCAR Sprint Cup event. The actor was in town to promote his new film “Grown Ups 2.” He was also named as the Grand Marshal for the major race alongside his film co-stars Adam Sandler and Kevin James. That is, the three were given the opportunity to give the command, “Drivers, start your engines.”

This must have been a massive moment for Shaquille O’Neal, but the bigger moment came when he met Danica Patrick. Patrick is arguably the most successful woman in the history of American open-wheel car racing, and Shaq is a big fan of hers.

The two also got a picture clicked together. Many onlookers would have been taken aback to see the 7-foot basketball legend towering over the 5’2″ Danica Patrick.

Shaquille O’Neal is a big fan of Danica Patrick

While Shaquille O’Neal is one of the most renowned athletes around the globe, he couldn’t help but confess his love for Danica Patrick. In the Daytona media center, Shaq was asked about Dwight Howard joining the Rockets. However, the big man decided to steer the conversation in a completely different direction.

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He talked about how he was excited to be on the track today. “Well, I’m looking forward to seeing Dale Earnhardt Jr. today on the track. Danica Patrick is one of my favorites,” Shaq said.

He then went on to add that he hopes she wins. “She’s very beautiful. She’s very feisty. I love the way she competes,” he said as he lavished praises on Danica Patrick.

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Shaq was then asked what he liked about her in particular, and the big man didn’t hesitate to switch on his flirt mode. “Honestly, she’s hot — smokin’. Danica … call me!” he said. Adam Sandler, who was seated next to Shaq, gave a hilarious response as he said, “Don’t do it, Danica!”

Shaquille O’Neal may not have persuaded Danica to call him, but he did get a picture with her that he’ll cherish for the rest of his life.