Teen Who Wears Size 23 Shoes — and Got Help from Shaquille O'Neal — Sets 2 World Records

Mar. 15, 2025

Eric Kilburn Jr.Photo:John F Martin/Guinness World Records

John F Martin/Guinness World Records

A 16-year-old boy has set two Guinness World Records.

Eric Kilburn Jr., whowent viral a year ago when NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal sent the Michigan teen some custom shoes, now holds the records for the largest feet for a living teenager and largest hands for a living teenager.

According to the Guinness World Recordswebsite, Kilburn is 6 feet, 10 inches tall and wears a size 23 shoe. His feet measure 13.50 inches, and his hands measure 9.13 inches.

Eric Kilburn Jr.John F Martin/Guinness World Records

“I love to inspire people to be them and be who you are. Not hide behind something,” said Eric in avideofor Guinness World Records.

The teenager told the organization that while he’s just “regular Eric” to his friends, with whom he enjoys gaming and playing sports, and that “being in the Guinness World Records book still feels surreal.”

“To have gone from reading the books to being inside the 2025 book is something I never would have imagined was even possible. This experience is something that I am so grateful for. It really couldn’t be any better in my eyes,” he said.

Noting that, due to his size, he’s met many “interesting people,” he encouraged individuals not to be afraid to stand out.

The PEOPLE Puzzler crossword is here! How quickly can you solve it? Play now!

Eric Kilburn Jr. playing video games with a standard controller.John F Martin/Guinness World Records

Eric’s mom has been an important driving force in his mindset. He told Guinness World Records that she’s shown him that “you can do anything, even through hard times.”

Never miss a story — sign up forPEOPLE’s free daily newsletterto stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

“Her strength and how she takes such good care of my brother and me, and also cares about others while working towards her goals, is pretty inspiring,” he said.

source: people.com