Shaquille O’Neal would be the most famous athlete to live in most towns of fewer than 20,000 people.
It’s nearly impossible, however, to dethrone Babe Ruth as the most famous athlete in the town of Sudbury, Mass.
According to the Boston Herald, when asked about such a title, O’Neal responded, “I think I surpassed Babe Ruth. That’s what I think.”
O’Neal’s rationale was that his statistics and titles justify him having the title.
“I’m just saying, how do you remember people — for their records or their championships?” he said. “I got both, too. How many rings he got?”
Unfortunately, Ruth has seven World Series titles and many statistical achievements. Upon realizing such, Shaq responded, “Damn. He got me.”
But he did find a similar title for himself.
“I’m the most famous African-American athlete from Sudbury,” he said.
O’Neal is looking to make his mark in Sudbury. He bought a giant estate in the town this summer, and recently stopped by the police department to introduce himself and potentially apply for a gun license as well.
It would be no surprise if his next move is to become a deputy in the town — something he has done in the past in his other places of residence.
Even so, he’ll likely always have to settle for second — as far as famous Sudbury athletes go.
NESN.com will showcase one Moment of Shaq every day until the Celtics open the season against the Heat on Oct. 26 at the TD Garden.
Sunday, Oct. 24: Shaq to become “Shaquita”?
