Hard work is one of the many factors that closely bonds NBA legend Jermaine O’Neal with his kids. Starting his NBA career at 17, the South Carolina native achieved 6 NBA All-Star selections and a legendary status through dedication and effort. He sees the same spirit and passion in his kids’ eyes. Despite some issues, such as the infamous Malice at the Palace in 2004, O’Neal is still remembered for his playing style and grit.

The NBA legend shares two kids with his wife, Mesha O’Neal. While his daughter is dominating with her skills in volleyball, O’Neal’s son is looking to make a niche for himself in the basketball landscape.

More about Jermaine O’Neal’s daughter Asjia O’Neal

O’Neal’s daughter Asjia plays for the University of Texas volleyball team. The 24-year-old initially began playing basketball. Practicing with her father, Asjia probably would have gone on to follow in her father’s footsteps. But that was until she discovered her love for a different sport. It was during her seventh grade that the athlete drifted towards volleyball. Before Texas, she played for the Carroll Senior High School.

The best moment for Asjia came during her college run. She was crucial in leading the Texas Longhorns to make an appearance in the 2020 NCAA Tournament Finals, which were held in 2021. The following year, she led Texas to win the NCAA championship by defeating the Nebraska Cornhuskers. Furthermore, she also made the record for the most blocks in Texas Volleyball history.

The retired NBA player, thrilled at her daughter’s achievement, took to his social media handle and wrote, “You are now a Legend in the game of Volleyball and have created a legacy that can only be described as a two-time champion, all-time Leader in blocks at Texas, All-American, All-Conference, All-Tournament and record holder for most aces in a national championship game “EVER”!”

Due to certain heart conditions that she was born with, Asjia had to undergo open heart surgeries twice. One was when she was 13 and another was after her freshman season. It was truly an inspiring moment when Asjia secured a win. Just recently, the former NBA player took to his Instagram to express love for his son on his birthday.

Jermaine O’Neal’s son is an aspiring basketball player

In June 2024, O’Neal Jr. was seen playing at the Pangos All-American Camp. He shared numerous clips of his games on his Instagram handle which boasts 16.5 k followers. As per the 2025 On3 Consensus, the player was ranked 48 overall.

While his college destination is not yet known, the player has already visited the University of South Carolina. He has already received an offer from Tennessee. And he also mentioned his interests in Texas as that’s his home state.

His father wrote a wholesome message on his Instagram on his son’s birthday. “Screaming Happy Birthday to my amazing son! I’m so proud of the young man that you are growing into. Keep dreaming and working hard because the sky is the limit for you! I Love You,” O’Neal Sr. wrote as he shared a picture of him with his son from the Pangos camp.

Even if both are in different sports, O’Neal Jr. and his elder sister are striving to uphold their father’s legacy.

Stay tuned for more such updates, and to follow what Shaq’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato, has to say about the infamous Shaq-Kobe feud, Caitlin Clark’s Olympic snub, and more, watch this video.