National Basketball Association

Report: Shaq conducts Boston Pops

Published Dec. 21, 2010 12:00 a.m. ET

share

facebookxredditlink

foxsports

Larger than life NBA star Shaquille O'Neal took the stage with the Boston Pops at Symphony Hall on Monday night, conducting the orchestra for three songs, the Boston Herald reported Tuesday.

The 7-foot-1 center — believed to be the tallest guest conductor in Boston Pops history and the first professional basketball player — swung the baton for the Christmas classic “Sleigh Ride,” the Jackson 5 hit “Can You Feel It” and Queen’s “We Are the Champions.”

“I’m honored to be here,” Shaq said before the concert, adding he could not believe it when the orchestra asked him to make the guest appearance.

“I said, 'Seriously, a real orchestra?’”

The Celtics star said after rehearsal that he had developed a newfound respect for conductors.

“My arms are killing me,” he said.

share

Get more from National Basketball Association Follow your favorites to get information about games, news and more

in this topic

National Basketball Association