Los Angeles Lakers legend Shaquille O'Neal has agreed to become a global ambassador for NordVPN. The digital security company announced the partnership on September 14. This news arrives as the Lakers' recent form shows significant challenges, including a 110-115 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on May 12, 2026.
O'Neal will work with NordVPN on its "Go big on your online protection" campaign. He is scheduled to promote awareness of online scams and phishing threats. The agreement is set to run for more than a year and includes a live event in New York City later this fall.
"I only work with people and brands I believe in, and NordVPN is serious about helping people stay protected online," O'Neal said in the official announcement. A promotional video was also released through a collaboration between his Instagram account and the company. This role adds cybersecurity ambassador to a resume that already lists entrepreneur, producer, and DJ.
O'Neal's enduring connection to the Lakers franchise makes his career moves relevant. He signed with Los Angeles as a free agent in 1996 and spent eight seasons with the team. His partnership with Kobe Bryant produced three consecutive NBA championships from 2000 to 2002, with O'Neal winning Finals MVP each time.
His 1999-2000 season was historically dominant. O'Neal averaged 29.7 points and 13.6 rebounds, won the scoring title and the NBA MVP award before leading the Lakers to the title. The franchise retired his No. 34 jersey in 2013. His peak coincided with the team's last three-peat.
The announcement comes during a period of on-court difficulty for the Lakers. Their recent form in the 2026 postseason was tough, with a record of 1 win and 4 losses in their last five games. They lost their last four contests.
Specific results include a 108-131 defeat to Oklahoma City on May 10 and a 125-107 loss on May 8. They also fell 108-90 to the Thunder on May 6. Their sole recent victory was a 98-78 win over the Houston Rockets on May 2, which followed a 93-99 loss to the same team on April 30. Fans can track the team's progress on our schedule page.
For O'Neal, the NordVPN partnership is another chapter in a busy post-playing career. He has remained highly visible through television, business, and entertainment long after his final NBA game. This deal confirms he has no plans for a quiet retirement.
For the Lakers, the focus remains on building a roster capable of returning to championship contention. The legacy of stars like O'Neal sets a high standard. The team's recent results, including that 110-115 loss to close their season, highlight the work ahead. While O'Neal champions online security, the Lakers will look to shore up their defense on the perimeter and in the paint.
