*The first trailer for the highly anticipated Superman movie (July, 2025), directed by James Gunn and starring David Corenswet as the Man of Steel, has officially landed, and it’s already generating massive buzz.
While the trailer itself doesn’t feature NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal, the film’s promotional campaign has cleverly tied in with the NBA, capturing the attention of both superhero enthusiasts and sports fans alike. This innovative marketing strategy, which included a teaser during the Puppy Bowl, has proven to be a slam dunk, with fans eagerly sharing their excitement online.
The trailer offers a fresh and engaging look at Clark Kent’s transformation into Superman, blending humor, action, and heart in true James Gunn fashion. Fans have praised the sneak peek for its ability to balance the iconic character’s legacy with a modern twist, setting the stage for what promises to be a thrilling addition to the DC Universe. The creative promotional efforts, including the NBA tie-in, have only amplified the anticipation for the film’s release.
Shaquille O’Neal, a self-proclaimed Superman superfan, has a unique connection to the iconic hero. Known as “Superman” during his basketball heyday, Shaq has embraced the nickname, even sporting the famed ‘S’ logo on his arm and decorating his Florida home with Superman memorabilia. However, the nickname became a point of contention in 2008 when Dwight Howard donned a Superman cape during the NBA Dunk Contest, leading some to dub him the new “Superman.” Shaq, clearly unimpressed, made it known that he wasn’t ready to pass the cape.
New Superman / Shaq promo with James Gunn and David Corenswet! pic.twitter.com/4BDVpB3Ime
— David Thompson (@daavidthompson) February 16, 2025
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Shaq’s love for Superman isn’t just limited to nicknames and logos—he once starred as the titular hero in the 1997 film Steel. Based on the DC Comics character John Henry Irons, the movie saw Shaq step into the role of a weapons engineer turned armored vigilante. Despite its ambitious premise, Steel was a box-office flop and received harsh criticism for its cheesy tone and lackluster execution. However, the film has since gained a cult following, with fans appreciating Shaq’s earnest attempt to bring a lesser-known DC hero to life.
While Shaq’s Steel may not have soared to critical acclaim, his passion for Superman remains undeniable. The new Superman trailer’s release has reignited conversations about Shaq’s connection to the character, with many fans reminiscing about his role in Steel and his larger-than-life persona as the NBA’s original “Superman.”
As the hype for James Gunn’s Superman continues to build, the film’s creative marketing strategies—from NBA tie-ins to Puppy Bowl teasers—have successfully captured the imagination of a wide audience. With David Corenswet poised to take on the iconic role, the new film promises to deliver a fresh take on the beloved hero while honoring his storied legacy. And while Shaq may not be suiting up as Superman this time around, his enduring love for the character ensures that his connection to the Man of Steel will never fade.
As fans eagerly await the film’s release, one thing is clear: whether on the basketball court or the big screen, Superman’s legacy continues to inspire and unite people across the globe.
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