LOS ANGELES, CA — In the days leading up to NBA All-Star Weekend, fans gathered in Los Angeles for a special live taping of The Big Podcast with Shaq LIVE, hosted by basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal. The event took place on February 12 at Candela La Brea, drawing a lively crowd of sports fans, podcast listeners, and entertainment enthusiasts.
Presence News attended the event as part of its ongoing coverage of major cultural and entertainment happenings across Los Angeles.
A Live Podcast Experience Before All-Star Weekend
The evening featured a live recording of The Big Podcast with Shaq, giving attendees a behind-the-scenes look at the popular show. During the taping, Shaq welcomed several notable guests including rapper Wale and actor and comedian Keegan-Michael Key.
The conversation covered a mix of topics ranging from entertainment and sports to personal stories and career reflections. Live podcast tapings have become increasingly popular in recent years, allowing fans to experience the energy of a recording session while interacting with hosts and guests in person.
Interactive Activities and Fan Moments
In addition to the live interview, the event offered fans a number of interactive activities. Guests were able to:
- Compete in Pop-A-Shot basketball games
- Take part in photo opportunities throughout the venue
- Enter giveaways for NBA All-Star tickets
The atmosphere reflected the excitement building across Los Angeles as the city prepared to host the annual NBA All-Star festivities.
Introducing SHAQ-A-LICIOUS XL Gummies
During the event, Shaq’s team also showcased a new consumer product line — SHAQ-A-LICIOUS XL Gummies, a gummy candy brand now appearing in retail stores.
The oversized candy line reflects Shaq’s larger-than-life branding and joins a long list of business ventures associated with the NBA legend, who has built a diverse portfolio across media, food, and consumer products.
Attendees were given an early look at the product as part of the live podcast experience.
A Unique Blend of Sports, Entertainment, and Business
Events like The Big Podcast with Shaq LIVE highlight the intersection of sports culture, celebrity media, and brand launches — a formula that has become increasingly common in the modern entertainment landscape.
For Los Angeles, the evening served as a preview of the energy surrounding All-Star Weekend, bringing together fans, creators, and industry figures for a night of conversation and celebration.
Presence News continues to cover major entertainment, technology, and cultural events throughout Los Angeles and beyond.
