KEMAH — A Kemah police cadet is getting a second chance at earning his badge, thanks to an unexpected act of generosity from basketball legend and philanthropist Shaquille O’Neal.

Jordan Wilmore completed the police academy but fell short on the state licensing exam, a setback that temporarily halted his path toward becoming a certified police officer. After learning about Wilmore’s story, O’Neal personally stepped in and offered to fund the cadet’s re-entry into the Alvin Community College Police Academy.

Kemah Police Chief Raymond Garivey said O’Neal had been following Wilmore’s journey and reached out directly.

“We’re excited for Jordan,” Garivey said. “He completed the academy but fell short on the exam. He is determined to be a police officer. Shaq had been following his story and said, ‘I need to come see you.’”

Chief Garivey said O’Neal will cover Wilmore’s academy expenses for the next six months, removing financial pressure and allowing him to focus fully on training and preparation.

“He gifted Jordan an important gift of kindness,” Garivey said. “He will fund him over the next six months so he can focus on the police academy.”

For Wilmore, the support came at a moment when he was questioning his future.

“I was really down after I failed the test,” Wilmore said. “Time management helps, so I plan to study harder for the long run.”

Despite the setback, Wilmore said his desire to serve others has not changed. He remains active in his community and operates a blessing box to help those in need.

“I love to give back,” Wilmore said. “I have a blessing box for those in need.”

O’Neal said he discovered Wilmore’s story by chance and felt compelled to help.

“I found Jordan by accident,” O’Neal said. “I always thought I was the largest law enforcement officer in the world. I saw him in a small town called Kemah.”

After speaking with Chief Garivey, O’Neal said he decided to intervene directly.

“I told him, ‘I don’t want you to do anything but focus on the academy,’” O’Neal said.

With renewed support and a clear path forward, Wilmore is preparing to return to the academy, determined to earn his certification and continue pursuing a career in law enforcement — this time with the backing of his department, his community, and an unexpected ally.

_{Photo credit: KGTX7}