Basketball icon Shaquille O’Neal has added another remarkable honor to his legendary résumé after being recognized as an honorary FBI Special Agent during the FBI National Academy’s latest graduation ceremony.
The former NBA superstar joined the 299th session of the FBI National Academy as the class celebrated its graduation at Quantico, Virginia, on Thursday, September 17, 2026.
FBI Director Kash Patel announced the special recognition, saying Session 299 included 265 law enforcement officials from across the United States. Patel described O’Neal as a strong supporter of law enforcement and said the basketball legend graduated alongside the session before receiving the honorary Special Agent designation.
The moment immediately attracted attention because O’Neal, best known for dominating NBA courts during his Hall of Fame career, has maintained a longtime interest in policing and law enforcement.
However, the title is honorary and does not mean Shaq has become a sworn FBI Special Agent with the investigative powers and duties of a federal agent.
Congratulations to our newest session of FBI National Academy graduates session 299 – represented by 265 law enforcement officials from around the country.
This session is historic – FBI was honored to be joined by one of the best supporters of law enforcement in the country -… pic.twitter.com/GeIBiBf9Sr
— FBI Director Kash Patel (@FBIDirectorKash) September 17, 2026
The FBI National Academy is based in Quantico and traditionally provides advanced professional education for experienced law enforcement leaders. Its regular program includes about 10 weeks of leadership, communication and physical fitness training.
Session 299 itself brought together law enforcement professionals from across the country and overseas, continuing the academy’s decades-long mission of strengthening leadership and cooperation among agencies.
For O’Neal, the recognition adds another chapter to a career that has extended far beyond basketball. Since retiring from the NBA, the four-time champion has become a television personality, businessman, philanthropist and prominent supporter of public safety organizations.
Now, Shaq can add honorary FBI Special Agent to that long list of accomplishments—a title few basketball legends can claim.
