Me’Arah O’Neal Makes Bold Declaration as She Steps Out of Father Shaquille O’Neal’s Shadow With Crucial Choice

The youngest O’Neal has made her decision. Shaquille O’Neal might be sporting Gators gear next season as he cheers for the kid he’s sure will continue his legacy on the court. But Me’Arah O’Neal is determined to be a star of her own kind. She’s surprised many a fan of Big Diesel by picking a rival college. And she’s cemented her decision on social media to be more than Shaq’s daughter.

We know Shaq’s super proud along with the whole family and even Me’Arah’s social media followers.

Shaq’s daughter Me’Arah O’Neal shows Shaq-sized grit

17-year-old Me’Arah O’Neal has officially committed to the University of Florida. She signed a national letter of intent with her famous dad, Shaquille O’Neal and her mom, Shaunie Henderson, present. Next season, this 6’4″ standout who her dad predicted as the next big thing in women’s basketball, will suit up for Gators.

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Ranked NO. 33 in the ESPNW Top 100 for the 2024 class, she was fielding offers from top programs, including LSU. The Tigers are not only the reigning national champs under Reebok signee, Angel Reese, it’s also her dad’s alma mater. But she recently revealed that with Shaq’s guidance, she’s found the way to step out of his shadow while continuing his legacy.

Me’Arah made several announcements on social media cementing the news. And if that’s not enough, she’s ready to overthrow LSU’s dominance. Another top-ranked prospect, Liv McGill, cheered for her with a, “Letsssss gettt itttt.” Ranked No. 16, McGill boasts the highest-ranked recruit ever in Gators basketball. Me’Arah responded to McGill with a bold, “we lit next szn.”

Current Gators guard, Laila Reynolds, was also excited to welcome the new commit. She typed an all-summarizing statement, “You hard,” under one of Me’Arah’s posts. Likewise, Me’Arah responded with “turnin up when i get there twin!”

It does look like the 17-year-old is buzzing for the challenge. And Gators nation is eager to have this superstar recruit on board too.

Gators fans excited for the Big Diesel energy

Me’Arah O’Neal recently told ESPN that her Shaq taught her how to deal with the pressure of everyone expecting her to be like her dad. She’s surprised everyone with her choice of picking her dad’s rival school. As one person commented, “Fathers rivalry school… interesting.”

But she’s instantly becoming the reason why everyone is moving to the swamp. Some people were relieved too like this commenter, “Whew! Knew it wasn’t going to be LSU but didn’t think UF either; niiiice UF.” Gators fans are hailing Coach Kelly Rae Finley for bagging powerhouses like O’Neal and McGill. “KRF and the whole staff are recruiting beasts,” former Gators star, Zippy Broughton said.

Even future rivals are excited. Louisville’s Nyla Harris commented, “Congrats gang!” Even SMU’s new recruit, Tiara Young wrote, “prada you gang.” Clearly the rivals are excited to face off against the new Gators roster next year. 

READ MORE: Shaquille O’Neal’s Daughter Sheds “Happy Tears” for Mom Shaunie and Stepfather Following Heartfelt Declaration

Texas A&M’s Janiah Barker and Team USA gold medalist also wrote a “Congrats.” Perhaps Me’Arah might end up as her teammate too and win a gold medal like her dad. Even WNBA pro, Alexis Morris who previously played at LSU, said the same.

Great things are coming for the Gators with a literal O’Neal in the Swamp. Me’Arah is certainly amped for her first college season. What do you think about this Gators lineup?