Me’Arah O’Neal, the youngest daughter of NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal, achieved a major personal milestone in college basketball, leading her team, the Florida Gators, to another victory with standout stats in her third game.
Speaking with ESPN, Me’Arah shared a piece of advice from her father that has guided her through her journey:
“My dad always tells me that pressure makes diamonds. I always try to keep that with me, especially in those moments where everyone is watching. I’m just trying to do me and make myself proud.”
This mentality paid off as Me’Arah scored 18 points in only 17 minutes on the court, more than doubling her scoring output from her previous two games combined.
She also made impressive strides in her shooting, hitting 66.7% from beyond the arc and grabbing eight rebounds.
Her NCAA journey is off to a strong start, with her mother, Shaunie Henderson, cheering from the stands as Me’Arah led the Gators to another 100+ point game and a 3-0 winning streak under head coach Kelly Rae Finley.
Me’Arah’s progress contrasts with her older brother Shaqir, who is working to establish his own rhythm with the Florida A&M Rattlers.
While Shaqir struggled in his opening games, scoring only two points in his debut, he showed some improvement with nine points and strong shooting percentages against the Maryland Terrapins. However, the Rattlers have yet to secure a win this season.
Shaquille O’Neal, a proud father and Hall of Famer, has spoken highly of Me’Arah’s potential, hinting at her future in the sport.
“I don’t like to put pressure on my babies, but she works out with my sons, and I think it’s fair to say one day if she continues, Me’Arah will probably be the best women’s basketball player ever. She’s that good,” Shaq said during his Hall of Fame induction.
Me’Arah and Shaqir carry their father’s legacy on the court, each setting their own path toward success.
