Shaq Loves His Tonka Trucks!

Tonka Toys were definitely part of my brother’s everyday lives growing up. I remember making them give my Barbie a ride in the truck bed and seeing the vehicles always in our sandbox. Shaquille O’Neal has fond memories of Tonka trucks as well. (I knew I loved Shaq for that reason alone!)
Basic Fun! is a Florida-based toy company behind several iconic toys – like Lite-Brite, Care Bears, and Pound Puppies! They feature fabulous toys that have stood the test of time. Plus, they have kicked off another classic campaign for Tonka trucks with Shaquille O’Neal!

Tonka was created in 1946 by a gardening supply company in Mound, Minnesota called Mound Metalcraft, which later became Tonka Toys Incorporated. At one time, Tonka was the world’s largest manufacturer of trucks! Over the years, the company was purchased by Hasbro. Hasbro, along with its licensees, has manufactured the product line since 1991.

Basic Fun! has partnered with superstar Shaquille O’Neal to talk trucks. There is a funny TV commercial that features Shaquille reminiscing about his childhood days on the playground with Tonka trucks –  and highlights the core message of the campaign, which encourages kids to engage in active, creative play.

“We want kids to take a break from their devices and get back to playing with real toys. We want to help kids be kids again,” said Shaquille O’Neal. “I’ve been a Tonka guy since ’76, and they’ve always been tough, durable, and fun.”

“Now more than ever, it’s so important for kids to have play experiences that get them thinking and moving,” said Jay Foreman, CEO of Basic Fun! 

Basic Fun! will also be contributing a ‘truckload’ of Tonka vehicles and other classic toys to the annual Shaq-A-Claus Christmas program that delivers holiday gifts and cheer to underprivileged children around the country.
Want to take a Tonka truck for a spin this holiday season? Check out the Tonka line on my Amazon affiliate link here and start your holiday shopping!