The internet was abuzz with the news of a record-breaking shoe size of a 6-foot-10 high school freshman, which also caught the attention of NBA superstar Shaquille O’Neal and Reebok.
Meet Eric Kilburn Jr.
Eric Kilburn Jr., 14, football player from Goodrich High School in Michigan who struggles to find shoes that fit him.
RELATED STORIES
The Kilburns’ Hunt For Fitting Shoes
Earlier this month, the Kilburns shared with The Flint Journal that they had run out of options in their attempt to find shoes that fit Eric, despite exploring various avenues.
Big E’s Basketball Shoes Were His Only Resort
Kilburn, or “Big E” as he is fondly called, currently plays the role of defensive tackle, going shoeless since he hasn’t been able to find a pair that fits him.
His only resort is a single pair of size 22 basketball shoes, which a friend discovered at a Nike outlet.
Reebok Steps Up
Reebok was moved by Kilburn’s story and decided to take action, sending him five pairs of Shaq’s custom size 22 shoes this week to provide him with some much-needed comfort.
Kilburn’s Gratitude For Reebok’s Colorful Shoes
“Since receiving, Eric’s been thrilled to be able to wear these shoes and even shared with us for the first time in years he couldn’t believe he even had options on different colorways and styles he could wear,” wrote Reebok.
Shaq’s Big Heart: Hip Surgery Doesn’t Stop Him From Reaching Out To Kilburn
Despite undergoing hip replacement surgery earlier this month , O’Neal managed to reach out to Kilburn via phone this week to offer him additional support.
Kilburn’s Shoeless Struggle Meets A Happy End
Reebok’s Twitter account posted a picture of the five pairs of sneakers the brand donated to Kilburn on Tuesday.
“We got you,” reads the tweet . “Sending you some of @SHAQ’s shoes ASAP!”
Meeting With Under Armour For Custom Size 23 Shoes
Kilburn had a meeting with Under Armour on Sunday to discuss obtaining custom size 23 shoes.
Capturing The Fit
Kilburn and his family were present at Bridgewood Church in Clarkston, where Robb Cropp, the senior director of Footwear Development at Under Armour, used 3D renderings to capture an accurate representation of Kilburn’s feet.
Adidas and Nike Refused To Help
The Flint Journal reported that Kilburn’s parents, who are both over 6 feet tall, shared their son’s story with the public after brands such as Adidas and Nike refused to assist them.
Expensive Road To Relief
After the athlete’s feet were measured by an orthopedic specialist, the Kilburn family learned of an expensive option for custom-made shoes exceeding $1,500.
Mom Offers To Purchase Custom Shoes
Kilburn’s mom, Rebecca, said the cost would have put a strain on their budget but offered to purchase a pair of custom-made shoes for her son.
A Two-Year Suffering In Crocs
Despite the harsh snowy weather conditions in Michigan, Kilburn was forced to wear Crocs for an entire two-year period.
The Painful Price of Ill-Fitting Shoes
Painful ingrown toenails, blisters, and calluses afflict Kilburn due to wearing shoes that are not the right size.
Kilburn’s Season-Ending Ankle Injury
Kilburn’s inability to wear cleats led to a high ankle sprain that prevented him from participating in all but three games of the last season, and he is currently in the process of recovering.
Puma, Under Armour, And Cat Join Forces
Kilburn’s family has announced that both Puma Under Armour will be crafting personalized shoes and cleats for their son, while Cat footwear has expressed interest in sending him boots.
NBA Legend’s Legacy of Giving
Known for his charitable nature, former NBA star O’Neal has frequently expressed his desire to be remembered for his generosity over anything else.
A Heart As Big As His Game
O’Neal has gained a reputation for his philanthropic efforts after leaving the NBA in 2011, which have included helping one of his favorite Atlanta restaurants affected by COVID-19 and purchasing an engagement ring for a stranger .
Shaq’s Genuine Motivations For Giving
Shaq’s charitable acts aren’t driven by self-promotion ; he gives because he genuinely believes it’s the right thing to do.
