You’ll Never Believe What Just Arrived . . .

Yes, it took longer than expected. Yes, the anticipation was killing us, too. But after waiting for more than a year in some cases, collectors of one of the most beloved athletes of all time can rest easy.

Shaquille O’Neal’s autographs have arrived safely and soundly inside Panini America HQ.

Turns out all it took was O’Neal’s retirement-created downtime, a little help from the NBA Retired Players Association and some sweet talk and savvy negotiating from fellow Louisiana State University alum Ivory Tabb, Panini America’s NBA acquisitions guru.

Indeed, Tabb wasn’t the least bit reluctant to play the LSU card in ensuring the safe return yesterday of O’Neal’s signed 5 by 7 box-toppers from 2009-10 Court Kings, his Majestic Signatures from 2009-10 Crown Royale, his 2010-11 Threads Team Threads and his outstanding allotment of stickers.

And true to form, the Big Aristotle did not disappoint, randomly adding every jersey number he’s ever worn — either 32, 33, 34 or 36 — to each autograph. The arrival made for one of the most invigorating mail days around these parts in some time.

Chances are the autographs will have a similar effect for collectors, too.