Although not uncommon, most NBA players (or NBA prospects) don’t take the time to get a degree. Typically these players like to strike when the iron is hot for the best chance at this once in a lifetime opportunity. Therefore, most players never even graduate, let alone pursue a doctorate.
The most popular NBA player with a Ph.D. is Shaquille O’Neal. He is known as one of the best centers of all time and perhaps the most educated player the league has had. Shaquille O’Neal has multiple degrees across various fields and levels. He is the first and only player to earn a true Ed.D.
The rest of the article will explore the player mentioned above and others related to the topic in greater detail. Keep reading to learn more about the NBA’s most educated players.
1. Shaquille O’Neal
If you’ve ever watched or played basketball (or even if you haven’t), chances are you know who Shaquille O’Neal is.
Better known as Shaq, he played for six different teams during his 19-year tenure, receiving numerous accolades and four various NBA championships. In 2016 he was inducted into the Naismith hall of fame.
After his retirement, his primary focus became his sports analyst career, but Shaq has always dabbled in multiple interests, even while playing professionally.
As a huge media personality and entrepreneur, Shaq has starred in numerous movies, tv and started various businesses. He even has a successful music career, having recorded four albums and toured professionally as a DJ.
Among his long list of passions, education is undoubtedly somewhere at the top of the list.
After being drafted during his senior year of college, Shaq promised his mother he would return to school and finish his degree. In 2000, he kept that promise after returning to LSU to get his bachelor of arts degree.
However, unlike most players, he didn’t stop there. Fiver years later, Shaq used the University of Phoenix’s online program to receive his master’s degree in business. Toward the end of his career, he would receive a doctorate in education (Ed.D.) in Human Resource Development.
While this isn’t technically a Ph.D., this achievement makes him the most educated NBA player of all time.
2. Dikembe Mutombo
Dikembe Mutombo Mpolondo Mukamba Jean-Jacques Wamutombo is another all-time great center and one of the most successful foreign players the league has seen. He is renowned for his defensive play and shot-blocking ability.
Dikembe played for 18 seasons and received multiple all-star nominations.
Born in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, he came to America to attend Georgetown University on a USAID scholarship, where he intended to become a doctor.
However, he was recruited by the basketball team, where he played until he graduated with a bachelor’s in linguistics and diplomacy. He was then drafted to the NBA by the Denver Nuggets.
Besides his professional career and linguistic ability (he speaks nine different languages), Dikembe is best known for his humanitarian work. He has taken multiple steps to improve living conditions in his homeland. He has received numerous accolades for his efforts from government officials and universities alike.
Dikembe has received an honorary doctorate from Georgetown University and Haverford College.