Photo: NBA on TNT/YouTube

Shaquille O’Neal says his unexpected decision to appear in Blue Chips not only earned him $3 million but also played an important role in bringing Penny Hardaway to the Orlando Magic.

O’Neal had no plans to pursue acting when he was approached about the basketball movie. His interest changed once he learned how much he would be paid and that the role would largely involve playing basketball.

“I never wanted to be an actor. I never wanted to be a rapper. But I’m sitting in the Four Seasons Hotel, a guy says, ‘Hey man, I’m a Hollywood producer. Here’s my card. I’m doing a movie called Blue Chips. I think you should do it.’ I say, ‘I’ve never acted in my life.’ He said, ‘All you’ve got to do is play basketball, play yourself.’ I’m like, ‘Nah.’ He said, ‘We’re going to give you $3 million.’ I said, ‘I’ll do it. You’ve got to make me a court so I can work out.’”

While working on the film, O’Neal encountered Hardaway and was immediately impressed by the young guard’s ability to create opportunities for him. Initially, O’Neal did not even realize Hardaway was a highly regarded NBA prospect.

“This skinny kid, this motherfucker was diming me up like Magic. I don’t know who he is because I don’t be paying attention to the young cats. So I’m thinking he’s an actor. Finally, I say, ‘Man, who’s this?’ They say, ‘Yo, man, that’s Penny Hardaway.’ I said, ‘Is he an actor.’ He said, ‘No, they think he going to be the number two or number three pick.’”

The experience convinced O’Neal that he wanted Hardaway alongside him in Orlando. When the Magic secured the top pick, O’Neal says he pressured the organization to find a way to acquire him.

“So I’ve got this in my head. My first major move was when I found out we got the ball. If y’all don’t get this Penny dude, I’m going to be looking to do something else. The draft comes, they draft C-Webb. Now I’m pissed. I’m tearing my house up, breaking mirrors, breaking trophies. Then they do the switch.”

Orlando initially selected Chris Webber before completing the draft-night trade that brought Hardaway to the Magic. What began as a $3 million movie opportunity ultimately introduced O’Neal to the guard he wanted as his NBA teammate.