Phillip A. Harrison may not be a household name, but his impact on the life of one of the greatest basketball players of all time, Shaquille O’Neal, is immeasurable. As Shaq’s stepfather and mentor, Harrison played a pivotal role in shaping the NBA legend’s character, work ethic, and success. Let’s take a closer look at the remarkable life of this unsung hero.
Phillip A. Harrison Bio
Phillip A. Harrison was born on August 15, 1947, in Jamaica. He later moved to the United States and served in the U.S. Army, retiring as a sergeant. Harrison’s military background would go on to significantly influence his parenting style and the values he instilled in his stepson, Shaquille O’Neal.
Harrison entered Shaq’s life when the future star was just two years old. He filled the void left by Shaq’s biological father, providing the young boy with a strong male role model. Harrison quickly recognized Shaq’s immense potential and made it his mission to help him achieve greatness, both on and off the court.
Early Life and Background
Little is known about Harrison’s early life in Jamaica. However, his decision to join the U.S. Army would prove to be a defining moment. The discipline, structure, and leadership skills he acquired during his military service would later become the foundation of his parenting approach.
After retiring from the Army, Harrison focused his energy on his family. When he met Lucille O’Neal and her young son, Shaquille, he embraced the role of father figure wholeheartedly. Harrison’s no-nonsense attitude and emphasis on hard work quickly earned him the respect and admiration of his stepson.
Marriage to Lucille O’Neal
Phillip A. Harrison and Lucille O’Neal’s marriage marked the beginning of a new chapter in both of their lives. Together, they created a stable and loving home environment for Shaquille and his siblings. Harrison and Lucille’s partnership was built on a shared commitment to family and a desire to see their children succeed.
Lucille’s unwavering support and Harrison’s guidance proved to be a powerful combination. They worked tirelessly to provide their children with the opportunities and resources they needed to thrive. The couple’s strong bond and united front played a crucial role in Shaquille’s upbringing and future success.
Role as Stepfather
As Shaquille’s stepfather, Phillip A. Harrison took on the responsibility of guiding and mentoring the young man. He recognized Shaq’s unique talents and worked diligently to help him develop his skills. Harrison coached Shaq’s youth basketball teams, instilling in him a strong work ethic and a drive to excel.
Harrison’s military background heavily influenced his parenting style. He demanded discipline, respect, and a methodical approach to decision-making from his stepson. Harrison taught Shaq the importance of setting goals, working hard, and never giving up on his dreams.
Off the court, Harrison stressed the value of education and personal responsibility. He encouraged Shaq to focus on his studies and to think carefully about his choices. Harrison’s guidance helped Shaq navigate the challenges of growing up and laid the foundation for his future success.
Influence on Shaquille O’Neal’s Career
When Shaquille O’Neal was just two years old, his biological father Joe Toney left the family. That’s when Phillip A. Harrison entered Shaq’s life, marrying his mother Lucille and becoming a father figure to young Shaquille.
Harrison recognized Shaq’s natural athletic talents early on. He coached his youth basketball teams and taught Shaq how to make the most of his physical gifts on the court.
But Harrison’s influence went far beyond just basketball skills. As a strict but loving parent, he instilled values like discipline, hard work, and responsibility in Shaquille. He taught Shaq important life lessons about learning from mistakes, making smart choices, and always giving his best effort.
There’s no doubt that Harrison’s guidance and support were major factors behind Shaq’s incredible success, both in his basketball career and business ventures. Shaq himself has said that Harrison was the driving force that made him who he is today.
Personal Sacrifices and Financial Struggles
Phillip A. Harrison’s own life story is one of resilience and transformation. Before meeting Lucille O’Neal, he had a troubled past that he chose to leave behind in order to be a good father and role model.
As a sergeant in the U.S. Army, Harrison developed a strong sense of discipline and responsibility. But supporting a family was still a financial struggle, especially with a young Shaquille to provide for.
Harrison worked tirelessly to give his family the best life possible, often making personal sacrifices to do so. He was a man who always put his loved ones first, no matter how difficult things got.
Even when faced with his health problems later in life, including a decade-long battle with diabetes and hypertension, Harrison remained positive and kept fighting until the very end. His strength and determination were an inspiration to all who knew him.
Legacy and Memorials
Phillip A. Harrison passed away on September 10, 2013, but his legacy lives on through the accomplishments of his stepson Shaquille O’Neal. Shaq has always been vocal about how much Harrison meant to him and how he wouldn’t have achieved his dreams without Harrison’s unwavering support.
To honour his memory, Shaq dedicated a room in his mansion called the “Philip Arthur Harrison Memorial Room.” It stands as a tribute to the man who helped make Shaq the superstar and the person he is today.
But Harrison’s impact extends even beyond his own family. He was known for his acts of kindness, like helping the homeless, and he inspired others to be generous and compassionate. His life is a powerful example of how one person can make a difference through love, dedication and sacrifice.
Passing and Tribute from Shaquille O’Neal
In a heartfelt tribute after Harrison’s passing, Shaquille O’Neal expressed his deep love and gratitude for the man he called his dad. “He was a great man and a great father figure for me. I love him and I miss him dearly. I wouldn’t be the man I am today without him,” Shaq said.
Shaq also shared how Harrison taught him the importance of helping others and giving back, something Shaq has made a priority in his own life. He credits Harrison for showing him what it means to be a leader and a role model.
Though it was painful to say goodbye, Shaq takes comfort in knowing that Harrison’s legacy will live on through the many lives he touched. “I know he’s in a better place now, looking down on us and smiling that big smile of his,” Shaq said. “I’ll always cherish the time we had together and the lessons he taught me. He may be gone, but he’ll never be forgotten.”
Conclusion
The life of Phillip A. Harrison is a testament to the power of love, dedication, and mentorship. Through his unwavering commitment to his family and his steadfast guidance, Harrison helped shape Shaquille O’Neal into the legendary player and successful businessman he is today.
Although Harrison passed away in 2013, his legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched and the values he championed. The “Philip Arthur Harrison Memorial Room” in Shaq’s Orlando mansion stands as a tribute to the man who taught him so much and loved him unconditionally.
Phillip A. Harrison’s story reminds us that greatness often starts with the love and support of family. His life serves as an inspiration to parents, mentors, and anyone who aspires to make a difference in the lives of others. Through his example, we learn that with dedication, discipline, and a caring heart, we all have the power to shape a brighter future.
