National Coach’s Honest Admission on Shaquille O’Neal as NBA Legend Witnesses LSU’s 20th Victory on Road

Mikaylah Williams was unstoppable. Shooting, scoring, and rebounding—she did it all to propel LSU to a commanding 80-63 victory over Florida. It was another milestone for Kim Mulkey’s Tigers, marking their 20th win of the season and adding to Mulkey’s incredible legacy! With four national championships, four high school titles, and an Olympic gold medal in her storied 25-year career, it was yet another reason to celebrate. But even with this impressive feat, Mulkey missed out on checking one special goal off her list.

Among the crowd for LSU’s big night was none other than NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal. He wasn’t just there for the game—he was there to support his daughter, Me’Arah O’Neal, who came off the bench for the Gators. In her 15 minutes on the court, Me’Arah may not have scored, but she made her mark with an assist and seven rebounds.

But Mulkey, laser-focused on coaching, missed the chance to greet Shaq.

“If I had know, I would’ve hugged his neck. I gave his daughter a big hug,” Kim Mulkey admitted. While she stayed locked in on her players, Shaq made sure to cheer on his youngest daughter, Me’Arah, as she faced off against the Tigers.

The youngest of Shaq’s three daughters, Me’Arah, plays for the Florida Gators and showed flashes of her potential. Though the baskets didn’t fall for her this time, she found other ways to contribute, grabbing seven rebounds and setting up her teammates. Interestingly, this isn’t the first time Shaq and Mulkey have crossed paths.

Despite Shaq and Kim Mulkey’s unlikely bond, the two are united by LSU’s former star

They share a unique connection through Angel Reese, LSU’s star player. Mulkey has praised Reese as one of LSU’s brightest talents, while Shaq has expressed how much Reese reminds him of his daughter.

“Me and Reese are really good friends. She reminds me of my daughter, so I mentor her at times,” Shaq shared during The Big Podcast with Shaq.

Shaq’s guidance has been a key part of Reese’s journey, especially during the 2023-24 season when she missed four games for undisclosed reasons. Reflecting on that time, Shaq revealed how he stepped in to help.

“Like the time she was having a problem with Kim [Mulkey], I called her and I said, ‘Hey, part of the game. Don’t say nothing, don’t respond. Just take your punishment like a soldier and then come back,’” Shaq said.

Neither Reese nor Mulkey ever confirmed what happened, but Reese did hint that her absence was related to an issue between her and the coach. While Shaq’s comments inadvertently shed light on the situation, they also highlighted his supportive role in Reese’s career.

Despite any challenges, the mutual respect between Shaq and Mulkey is clear. Whether it’s through their shared admiration for Reese or their dedication to their respective teams.