We’ve heard many stories from kids with celebrity parents and yes, some of them do make us jealous while some make us rethink that same emotion. So of course, having celebrity parents comes with its pros and cons! Let’s talk about the O’Neal family. And yes, we are talking about the great Shaquille O’Neal and Shaunie Henderson’s children.

Their second youngest just recorded a significant achievement in the game against the Alcorn State Braves on Monday night. Surely, one would think he’d be showered with compliments. Praises from siblings? Crossed off the list. The parents? Nowhere in sight! Until the next day — Mom Shaunie finally came through for her boy.

The O’Neals have been racking up their cupboards with several wins. From Me’Arah’s impressive game wins with the Gators to Team Shaq’s OGs win in the NBA All-Star Weekend. Now, another one to the bag with Shaqir’s first collegiate double-double. How? With 12 points and 10 rebounds! The apple sure doesn’t fall far from the tree. And Shaq’s youngest kids are proving the saying. Now, now, can’t leave out the First Lady of Houston Lighthouse Church here, can we? After all, Shaunie has always been supportive of her children’s maneuvers.

Even with all the support that Shaqir got from his family, it was noticed that nothing about his first collegiate double-double on the social media handles of any of the O’Neals on the day. Even while it took time, mom Shaunie Henderson pulled through for her son, even though she was a day late with the praise with a story posted on her Instagram.

On her Instagram story, Shaunie reposted a reel from ‘The Portal Report’ and ‘Low Major Hoops’ while tagging Shaqir’s Instagram handle. Though, one thing was missing. A congratulatory message. But anyone could tell how proud she is of her ‘favorite youngest son’. Why not? He’s nailing it with the Rattlers! Team Florida A&M won the game with a 9-point difference. And what’s more? Shaqir is among the top 5 scorers of the game highlighting his impressive defensive skills.

The Big Aristotle has yet to make any comments on this matter. Despite the silence, we all know his heart is swelling with pride. Why, you ask? Well, both father and son recorded their first double-double in their early 20s. With another commonality! Shaq also scored 12 points and 18 rebounds in his first double-double. This leads to a big question. Is ‘little Shaq’ finally on his way to carry his father’s legacy?

Culture and dunks run deep in the O’Neal family

Shaq and Shaunie are quite vocal when it comes to their roots. They have made sure to inculcate the significance of Black history to their children since they were young. The result? Shaqir’s decision on choosing his college team.

For the son of the Lakers legend, there is no limit to the number of franchises wanting to sign him up. So, what makes HBCUs special? HBCUs are a hub where many Black leaders were made as they nurture talents within the community by raising awareness about arts, entrepreneurship, etc. Notable NBA alumni of FAMU include former Knicks center Jerome James and the former 76ers center Clemon Johnson.

Seeing Shaqir’s improvements as a Rattlers, they sure have a knack for bringing out latent talents. He, now, averages 9.6 points and 3.8 rebounds per game. Expressing gratitude for the FAMU head coach, he said, “I entered the portal to bet on myself. I had bad stats, averaged one point a game, and had no other interest. Coach Pat ran into my dad and brother and said he’s willing to take a chance on me. He came and checked me out during the summer. Coach Pat gave me an opportunity.” With this development, all eyes will be on Shaqir now. Needless to say, having a Hall of Famer father, does come with a heavy responsibility and scrutiny.