Shaquille O’Neal supports Jordan Wilmore’s quest to become Texas’s tallest cop, sponsoring his academy reattempt after narrowly missing the passing mark.
KEMAH, Texas — NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal is helping a young man chase his dream of becoming the tallest cop in Texas.
Jordan Wilmore, 24, is an aspiring Kemah police officer. We first shared his story in September, before he entered the police academy. After completing the academy, Wilmore recently took his state peace officer exam and scored 69, just one point shy of the passing score of 70.
“At first I was down, but I thought, you know, I’m still young. You fail, you get right back up. Can’t be too quick to quit,” Wilmore said.
Police Chief Raymond Garivey said Wilmore’s determination stood out.
“In my 34-year career, I’ve seen others fail, but I also see others give up. Once they’re done, they’re done. That’s not the case here. He wants to serve,” Garivey said.
O’Neal, a certified peace officer himself, reached out to help Wilmore. He told the chief during a FaceTime call about Wilmore’s situation and has agreed to sponsor his next attempt at the police academy.
“I want him to really focus on this because it’s commendable that a kid wants to be an officer. I love cops. They made me who I am,” O’Neal said.
As an additional incentive, he says he’ll have a custom-made car ready for Wilmore when he passes the exam.
Wilmore said he’s grateful for the support.
“I’m really thankful for him helping me out and being there, and being a mentor for helping me through this,” he said.
O’Neal knows the journey firsthand.
“It actually took me 5 to 7 years to graduate from the LA Sheriff’s Academy. I wanted to just let him know he’s got my full support. I’m going to be on you, brother, make sure you get it done,” he said.
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