How I Caught Shaq O’Neal at Costco While Playing Pokémon Go

Last Saturday was supposed to be an ordinary day. I grabbed my phone, opened Pokémon Go, and set out for a quick trip to Costco. My plan? Stock up on snacks and, hopefully, catch a rare Pokémon or two along the way.

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As I roamed the aisles, phone in hand, eyes on the screen, I noticed a huge Snorlax appear right near the frozen foods section. I was determined not to let this one get away. I stopped in my tracks, focused hard, and prepared the perfect throw. Just as I released the Poké Ball, a massive shadow loomed next to me. I looked up—and there he was, none other than the basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal!

At first, I couldn’t believe my eyes. Was this some kind of augmented reality trick? But no, it was really Shaq, towering over the carts, searching for some snacks. I must have looked stunned, because Shaq laughed his famous deep laugh and asked me if I caught anything good. Still in shock, I showed him the Snorlax on my phone. To my surprise, Shaq revealed he also plays Pokémon Go—occasionally, between shopping trips and slam dunks.

He even showed me his Pokémon collection, filled with all sorts of powerful creatures. We bonded over rare finds, and for a moment, Pokémon Go wasn’t just about virtual monsters—it was about real-world connections in the most unexpected places.

Before heading out, Shaq posed for a quick selfie with me (and my Snorlax!), turning my simple Costco run into an unforgettable encounter.

So, next time you head out with your phone and a shopping list, remember: you never know who—or what—you’ll catch. Pokémon hunting can lead to more surprises than just rare spawns. Sometimes, you get a story worth sharing for years to come.

Let me know if you want the story made longer, funnier, or more detailed!