Florida bound: Me’Arah O’Neal.
On Sunday, 17-year-old Me’Arah O’Neal announced her plan to enroll at the University of Florida. Her father, NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal, attended Gator University.
Me’Arah celebrated her decision with loved ones and friends on Sunday. She also went on Instagram Live to interact with followers and post pictures from the event.
“It was a significant day,” she informed her app users.
Me’Arah O’Neal, daughter of NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal, has chosen to attend the University of Florida to play basketball. She made this decision after visiting the campus and feeling a connection with Coach Kelly Rae Finley and the Gators. Me’Arah expressed that she connected more with Coach Kelly than with coaches from other colleges and appreciated the genuine concern shown for her both on and off the court.
Despite Shaquille O’Neal’s ties to LSU, where he played in college, he stated that he stayed out of his daughter’s decision-making process and advised her to go where she was needed rather than where she was wanted. Me’Arah mentioned that her father was supportive during her university visits and emphasized the importance of taking her time to make the right choice.
Me’Arah expressed her gratitude to her loved ones, including her siblings, and LeBron James’s son, Bronny James, commented on her Instagram post, saying he was proud of her.
Me’Arah O’Neal attended Episcopal High School in Houston and was part of the school’s basketball team. She joins the legacy of her basketball-oriented family, with her father Shaquille O’Neal being one of the greatest NBA players of all time.