“Sanders” printed on the back of your shirt naturally weighs heavy. Shedeur has largely lived up to it. However, Shilo, unfortunately, has felt the proverbial burden. This isn’t just the case with Deion Sanders’ kids on the gridiron. Over on the hardwood, youngest daughter Shelomi has also experienced her peaks and troughs. This had led to a massive, career-altering decision last offseason. The context of what ensued is important to realise the dynamic between father and daughter.

Shelomi left her father and brothers behind in Colorado and entered the NCAA transfer portal. She eventually joined Alabama A&M way down south, far from Boulder. Deion Sanders wasn’t thrilled in the slightest as somebody who prides himself on his proximity to his children. Prime even labeled his decision “stupid” at the time. However, there could never be bad blood for too long in this intrinsic bond. He’s warmed up to the idea as time has passed. In fact the bond is so strong, Deion feels it, quite literally, shows up on her face!

Shelomi took to her IG to post a picture of her at the gym, for a brand collaboration with Rihanna-owned Savage x Fenty. “Ready to start the New Year off strong in my @savagexfenty Running Hot romper and Supple Flex set #savagexambassador #FITTOBEYOU” she wrote. In reply to this, Deion took to the comments with his usual love and buoyancy, writing “Daddy Face!”The two do share a facial resemblance. Deion Sanders did beat his ex-wife and Shelomi’s mother, Pilar, to the claim. Given he’s probably getting a well-earned rest somewhere after a gruelling season, expect Deion to be more active on social media than usual and, by extension, be first to their kids’ posts ahead of Pilar Sanders.

Pilar was more supportive of Shelomi’s move to Alabama A&M right from the outset. She was also very vocal in favour of Shedeur, after deeming his Heisman snub to be lamentable. Both parents, through their own friction and differences, have always been huge proponents of their kids’ career escapades. Shelomi landing her endorsement deals from global brands will bring the pair of them joy.

That said, Pilar and Deion Sanders do not even look eye to eye anymore. On Shedeur and Shilo’s senior day, the two parents walked their kids to the podium on separate junctures. The fallout from their marriage and ensuing divorce hasn’t even transpired into a cordial relationship. Although it’s not something that has deterred their kids, at least from an outside perspective.

Pilar and Deion Sanders’ dynamic almost non-existent since their controversy-ridden separation

Deion Sanders has been involved in two very public divorces at different stages. Both involved stretched-out legal battles revolving around money and the custody of his kids. Pilar is his second wife, and they got married in 1999. Right at the peak of his fame in the NFL. The couple divorced in 2013. Prior to it being finalized, there was an ugly episode. That is perhaps what stems the current dynamic between the two, or lack thereof.

Pilar alleged that the prenuptial agreement, more commonly known as a prenup, between them was forged. She was seeking to get more money in return than stipulated, reasoning alimony and child support payments. Allegedly, the prenup gave Pilar $100,000 when she signed it and an additional $1 million in the event of a divorce. The case was dismissed by the court, and the prenup was deemed legitimate. Pilar and Deion Sanders have since kept their distance. However, she did keep his last name.

The Sanders clan is stepping into a new dawn. Shedeur, and perhaps Shilo, are headed to the NFL. This has got to hit the parents on a personal level, seeing their kids all grown up and becoming professional athletes. Shelomi still has college to traverse. With her father permeating some of his athleticism and even self-proclaimed facial likeness through to her, she hopes to kick a somewhat stagnant basketball career into gear.