By: Ethan Shen

Back then, being an athlete was just that – training and preparing for competitions and events your entire life – then eventually getting phased out by newer, younger souls as you grow older and slower.

Now, Shaq has upped the ante by owning businesses, having a huge stock portfolio, and starring in commercials for fourteen different companies. Over the years, he has owned 40 24-Hour Fitness gyms, 155 Five Guys restaurants, one Krispy Kreme doughnut shop, 17 Auntie Anne’s pretzel stands and nine Papa John’s pizza places. He even has his own fast-food chain, Big Chicken.

At the end of the day, Shaq’s fun personality and sense of authenticity make him a reliable bet for any company to invest in. His advertisements have brought in millions of dollars in the past, and his popularity has continued to grow. All in all, Shaq is an amazingly unique sports and business phenomenon.