AMBRIDGE, Pa. -- Thousands of fans lined up Friday night to watch Shaq take on Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger in an athletic challenge at Ambridge High School football field.

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VIDEO: Ben Shows Up To Battle Shaq
VIDEO: Shaq Arrives In Ambridge
SLIDESHOW: Ben, Shaq Warm Up, Toss Football With Fans

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Basketball superstar Shaquille O’Neal took on Pittsburgh’s own two-time Super Bowl-winning quarterback Ben Roethlisberger in a football scrimmage challenge for a new reality show called “Shaq Vs.”

In upcoming episodes of the series, Shaq will challenge a variety of star athletes in their particular sport, including Michael Phelps, Oscar De La Hoya and Serena Williams.

Channel 11 spoke with fans lined up outside Ambridge High School's Moe Rubenstein Stadium, waiting to get seats to watch the competition.

"I think this is something I'll always remember because I love the Steelers, and I love to watch Shaq play," said fan Zamonte Lewis.

It will be Ben's first public appearance since his name was mentioned in a Nevada civil lawsuit accusing him of sexual assault. The fans we spoke with supported the Steeler quarterback.

"He's innocent," said fan Lisa Book. "I think she just wants the money."

This is the first episode of Shaq's reality show, and Ambridge High School’s athletic director told Channel 11 he is glad the one-on-one is taking place on his home turf.

Big Ben looked relaxed as he tossed the ball back and forth with fans in the stands before the event.

“This is wonderful for the town, the county, for Western Pa. It’s a win-win for everyone,” said Randy Cosgrove.