Most teenagers struggle to fit in, but the experience is literal for Kylon Owens.
The 17-year-old is 6 feet 9 inches tall. While his height makes him a star high school basketball player in Dallas, Texas, it also makes clothes shopping a daunting (and expensive) task for him and his parents. Thankfully, a department store stepped in to help him prepare for prom this year!
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After hearing about the senior’s incredible upcoming achievements, which include being valedictorian and graduating with both a high school diploma and an associate’s degree, J.C. Penney decided it was time to show Kylon some love. So they organized a suit fitting for him at their Hurst location.
What the representatives didn’t mention was that a special visitor would be joining them – Shaquille O’Neal!
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The 7-foot-1-inch former NBA star and J.C. Penney brand ambassador understands just how hard finding the right outfit can be. As a teen, he also struggled to buy clothes and shoes, so he was more than happy to help Kylon out.
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O’Neal picked out a few different suits before Kylon found his match on the third try. Then O’Neal gave him something even better than a snazzy look: wisdom.
“Listen to my parents,” Kylon said. “He told me to always listen to them and keep the ones that love me close.”
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The experience encouraged Kylon to pursue his dream of playing in the NBA.
“I feel very special today,” he said. “He was like me once, so I know that it’s possible to be someone like him one day.”
As for O’Neal, watching Kylon light up was a reward in itself: “It’s just about making people happy.”
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Way to show your fans you care, O’Neal! Even after retiring from your basketball career, you continue to be a wonderful role model.
Watch Kylon meet his idol in the video below, and don’t forget to share his story with your friends.
A BIG surprise for a deserving young man. @KingKylon is a senior at South Oak Cliff HS in @dallasschools. @SHAQ and @jcpenney made his day with some big and tall suits. Tonight, Shaq will watch him play. @FOX4 pic.twitter.com/mz5FZ23o5L
— Steven Dial (@StevenDialFox4) January 16, 2020
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