Angel Reese reciprocated Shaquille O’Neal’s love for her in advance. Likely even before she met the big man. As most fans would know, the two stars share a close bond with each other. O’Neal recently even highlighted that he loves Reese “as a daughter.” Now, during a recent conversation on Unapologetically Angel, the Chicago Sky star and Shaq got to talking about their initial interaction with each other.

The discussion led to Reese recalling the time Me’Arah was on a visit to LSU, while Reese was already a part of the college team. “You took good care of my baby. Thank you so much,” Shaq said, recalling the moment. This wasn’t just any visit, though.

Back in February 2023, Reese hosted Me’Arah on an official LSU visit ahead of an intense game against Mississippi State. And Shaq, always up for motivating the next generation, challenged Reese to put up 20 points and 20 rebounds. The Sky rookie didn’t just meet his challenge but crushed it with 23 points and 26 rebounds.

This whole chain of events became a turning point for the formation of a bond between Shaquille O’Neal and Angel Reese. And their connection only deepened when the then LSU star invited Shaq to escort her on Senior Day—a role usually saved for family.

Since then, the bond between the two stars has only grown stronger. In an interview with USA Today, Reese shared, “He’s so genuine, he’s been there for me through tough times. He just gets it, and there’s not a more perfect person for me to be tight with…” And Shaq stated on Unapologetically Angel that he loves the Chicago Sky star like a “daughter.”

Shaquille O’Neal’s 18-year-old daughter all set for her freshman season with Florida Gators

Me’Arah O’Neal is gearing up for her freshman season with the Florida Gators. And excitement is in the air as women’s college basketball is nearly a week away from tipping off. Standing at an impressive 6’4″, the 18-year-old already made waves by choosing the Gators over her father’s legendary alma mater, LSU. Her reason? Florida just felt like home.

And Gators head coach Kelly Rae Finley seems as thrilled as fans to see what Me’Arah brings to the court, praising her drive and commitment. “Her willingness to learn, her eagerness to want to be the best,” Finley told First Coast News. “If she just puts her best foot forward every day, she’s going to be a tremendous player.”

Meanwhile, for Me’Arah, this journey is about more than basketball. She felt a strong connection with Coach Kelly, who has shown she cares about her players not just on the court but as individuals. “I felt like I connected with Coach Kelly more than I connected with any of the other schools,” she told ESPN.

The love and commitment for Gators shows Me’Arah’s official visit to LSU served no major purpose, but it sure did earn Shaquille O’Neal another daughter in Angel Reese.