Shaquille O'Neal's celebrity status served him well early on, even before his NBA fame. As a 16-year-old stationed in West Germany with his Army father, Shaq's size and athleticism often bailed him out of youthful hijinks.

In his autobiography, "Shaq Uncut," he candidly confesses to late-night pool escapades with friends, hopping the fence after closing hours for midnight cannonballs. The ensuing chases by military police became a routine, with Shaq and his buddies using their speed to escape. Their notoriety was undeniable, as Shaq admits, "Most of the time, they knew it was us. I mean, there weren't a whole bunch of six-foot-ten kids roaming around the base." This "celebrity treatment," as Shaq puts it, meant they occasionally got away with their antics.

However, behind the playful mischief lay a harsh reality. Shaq, at 15, battled Osgood-Schlatter disease, causing painful swelling in his knees. Earning recognition on the court wasn't easy. His German basketball coach barely acknowledged him, dismissing him as "terrible." This rejection fueled Shaq's determination. He donned uncomfortable braces, pushing through the pain to prove his worth.

Shaq's journey from teenage prankster to NBA legend wasn't a smooth one. His early struggles and physical limitations make his eventual success even more remarkable. While his celebrity status offered him some leeway in his youth, it was his unwavering dedication and resilience that truly paved his path to greatness.