Shaquille O’Neal can officially add another unusual title to his already legendary résumé.
The NBA Hall of Famer was named an honorary FBI Special Agent during the FBI National Academy’s Session 299 graduation ceremony in Quantico, Virginia.
FBI Director Kash Patel presented Shaq with the honorary recognition while celebrating hundreds of law enforcement professionals completing the academy’s leadership program.
Now, to be clear, Shaq did not suddenly become an active FBI agent.
The title is strictly honorary. He did not complete the training required to become an FBI Special Agent, and the recognition does not give him investigative authority or law enforcement responsibilities.
Shaq does, however, have a long history of supporting law enforcement. He previously served as a reserve police officer and has participated in community policing initiatives over the years.
Still, the moment created some controversy online.
Some social media users criticized Shaq for accepting the honor from Patel, who has faced scrutiny from lawmakers and former FBI officials over allegations that his leadership has politicized the bureau. Patel has rejected that characterization and says his goal is to remove politics from the FBI and focus on public safety.
One critic even posted a video getting rid of his Shaq jersey because of the ceremony.
Shaq, being Shaq, was not exactly bothered by the criticism.
So what do you think? Should accepting an honorary recognition be viewed separately from opinions about the person presenting it?