Currently, leading the team in blocks per game, Me’Arah O’Neal’s abilities were once again on full display during their latest win. Florida secured its fifth home win of the season, defeating the Marshall Thundering Herd, inside the O’Dome. Although Shaquille O’Neal and ex-wife Shaunie Henderson’s youngest daughter was not the top scorer of the team, she still got her moment. And the O’Neal clan couldn’t stop sharing it.
First, it was the eldest in the family who set the tone. Lakers legend Shaquille O’Neal’s daughter with former partner Arnetta Yardbourgh, Taahirah O’Neal, shared her excitement for her younger sister’s incredible block, captioning the moment with, “😤😤😤😤One of one.” Not far behind, Shaunie Henderson chimed in with pride, reposting the University of Florida Gators’ highlight reel and adding, “Baaaaabygirl!!💪🏽.” The post featured one photo and three videos, showcasing Me’Arah O’Neal’s standout performance.
View this post on Instagram
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
The viral moment highlighted by Taahirah and Shaunie came from an emphatic block in the second quarter. With 7:50 left on the clock, a player from the opposing team dribbled past two defenders and attempted a layup, only to be met by Me’Arah’s towering rejection. “O’Neal with the emphatic block!” declared one commentator, followed by another exclaiming, “Right on cue!”
But the support didn’t stop there. Me’Arah’s brothers also shared the highlight reel on their stories, focusing not on the block but on another display of her skill set. With 3:47 remaining, Jeriah Warren dished a pinpoint pass to Me’Arah, who confidently drained a 3-pointer—her only one of the game.
Impressively, Me’Arah currently boasts the second-highest 3-point shooting percentage on her team (35%). Showing her gratitude for the assist, Me’Arah commented, “Good pass, JDub💙👌🏽,” giving props to her teammate. Shaunie Henderson returned to the comment section to heap praise on her daughter, and she wasn’t alone. The First Lady of the Light House Church wrote, “💪🏽💪🏽💪🏽💪🏽😍😍😍😍.” Even the pastor, her husband, Keion Henderson was fired up seeing those highlights, “🔥🔥🔥.”
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Me’Arah O’Neal’s indifferent season continues, despite Shaunie Henderson’s presence
“When I first saw Me’Arah dribble a basketball, I was actually kind of shocked because no one taught her. She just watched her brothers,” shared Shaunie Henderson, reflecting on her youngest daughter’s natural abilities on the court. “She has a God-given athletic ability that is just not normal.” Henderson’s pride in Me’Arah’s talents was evident when she attended her daughter’s season debut for the Florida Gators. While Me’Arah managed only 7 points in that game, her journey this season has been anything but ordinary.
In just the third game of the season, Me’Arah showcased her potential, scoring a career-high 18 points—a mark she has yet to surpass. However, her progress hit a hurdle in the next game, where she suffered a blow to the face during the first quarter and was sidelined for the remainder of that matchup, also missing the following game. Upon her return, Me’Arah struggled to regain momentum, posting 7 points in one game and going scoreless in another.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Despite the ups and downs, Me’Arah demonstrated her resilience by recording her first double-double of the season against Hofstra, tallying 14 points and 10 rebounds. Most recently, during an 82–63 win over the Thundering Herd, the freshman scored 7 points—a steady contribution as she continues to find her footing in collegiate basketball.
Statistically, Me’Arah’s impact on the Gators is undeniable. She ranks second in 3-point shooting percentage and rebounds while leading the team in blocks per game. Impressively, she’s achieving this while playing significantly fewer minutes than the team’s top three scorers. With time and consistency, Me’Arah has the potential to elevate her game to new heights.
Have something to say?
Let the world know your perspective.
Debate
Is Me'Arah O'Neal the next big thing in basketball, or just living in Shaq's shadow?
What’s your perspective on:
Is Me'Arah O'Neal the next big thing in basketball, or just living in Shaq's shadow?
Have an interesting take?