JUST IN: NBA Legend Shaquille O’Neal with a teary eyes gets emotional during his apology to Angel Reese Amidst the frenzy… see more

LSU star Angel Reese’s decision to include NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal during her Senior Night festivities spoke volumes, despite her remaining mum on her WNBA Draft goals 2024 WNBA Draft on Monday night.

“I am described as Angel’s understandable ear,” O’Neal tells PEOPLE exclusively of Reese. “I know things that she went through, I know what she’s going through, I know what’s about to happen to her and I could give her advice.”

The basketball legend, who was the number one pick in the 1992 NBA Draft before going on to play for six NBA teams over his 19-year career, says the rookie can find comfort in his advice due to his experience in the league.

O’Neal says when they “speak about greatness,” he’s “seen it” and “heard it.” Therefore, he says, “you can take my word for it.” In the last year, he has become a mentor to Reese, who rose to fame during LSU’s championship run in the 2023 March Madness tournament.”And when you have daughters, you know how to use that calm voice,” he adds. So after Reese was selected in the WNBA Draft, O’Neal says, “the first thing I told her is I was proud of her.”

As a self-described “leader,” O’Neal says he tries to never “micromanage people.” He says he’s careful with his word choices and avoids demands — rather, he says, “I’m happy for you. I’m proud of you. If you need anything, you call me.”