Shaquille O’Neal, a basketball legend, is not only known for his dominance on the court but also for his role as a father to six children. This article explores who Shaquille O’Neal’s sons and daughters are, their ages, careers, and personal lives, while shedding light on his married life, dating history, and family dynamics. From their athletic pursuits to their unique paths, here’s an updated, in-depth look at Shaq’s children in 2025, enriched with fresh insights and perspectives.
Shaquille O’Neal’s Married Life, Divorce, and Dating History
Shaquille O’Neal was married to Shaunie Nelson from December 26, 2002, until their divorce in 2011. The couple faced challenges, with Shaq filing for divorce in 2007, only to reconcile briefly before Shaunie finalized the divorce in 2011, citing irreconcilable differences. Their marriage produced four children: Shareef, Amirah, Shaqir, and Me’arah. Shaq also has a daughter, Taahirah, from a previous relationship with Arnetta Yardbourgh, and Shaunie brought her son, Myles, from a prior relationship into the family.
Post-divorce, Shaq’s dating life has been notable. He dated reality TV star Nicole “Hoopz” Alexander from 2010 to 2012 and was linked to model Laticia Rolle from 2014 to 2018. As of 2025, Shaq has kept his personal life private, with no confirmed relationships, focusing instead on his children and career ventures, including his role as a sports analyst and entrepreneur. His net worth, estimated at $500 million in 2025, reflects his success in basketball, endorsements, and business, per Forbes.
Shaquille O’Neal’s Children: A Closer Look at Their Lives
Shaq’s six children have carved out their own identities, with some following in his athletic footsteps and others pursuing unique paths. Below is a detailed exploration of each child’s age, career, height, and personal achievements, enriched with insights into their journeys.
Taahirah O’Neal: The Academic Star
Taahirah O’Neal, born on July 18, 1996, is 29 years old in 2025. The daughter of Shaq and Arnetta Yardbourgh, Taahirah has chosen a path away from basketball, focusing on academics and a low-profile career. She graduated from Oglethorpe University in 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, minoring in politics and African-American studies. Based in Houston, Texas, she works in communications and community engagement, leveraging her education to advocate for social causes.
Taahirah’s 21st birthday in 2017 was a spectacle, with Shaq hosting an extravagant all-white party at Life HTX in Montrose, featuring a custom gown by Chloe Dao. Her preference for privacy keeps her out of the spotlight, but her LinkedIn profile highlights her work in non-profit organizations, showcasing her commitment to social impact. Follow her journey on Instagram.
Shareef O’Neal: The Basketball Prodigy
Shareef O’Neal, born on January 11, 2000, is 25 years old and stands at 6’10”, mirroring his father’s towering presence. A power forward for the G League Ignite in 2025, Shareef has overcome significant challenges, including a heart surgery in 2018 to correct a congenital condition. His resilience shone through as he returned to play for UCLA and later LSU, where he averaged 7.2 points per game in the 2022-2023 season, per ESPN.
Shareef’s bond with his father is evident in heartfelt moments, like Shaq dedicating a dunk to him during a game, later immortalized as a tattoo. Shareef’s playing style is more versatile than Shaq’s, focusing on agility and shooting. His net worth is estimated at $2 million, driven by endorsements and his growing basketball career. Follow him on X.
Amirah O’Neal: The Rising Basketball Star
Amirah O’Neal, born on November 13, 2001, is 23 years old and 6’1” tall. A standout high school basketball player at Crossroads School in Santa Monica, she joined LSU’s women’s basketball team in 2020. By 2025, Amirah has become a key player, averaging 12.5 points per game in the 2024-2025 season, per NCAA. Her defensive skills and court vision draw comparisons to WNBA stars.
Amirah’s journey reflects her family’s athletic legacy, but she’s carving her own path with a focus on teamwork. Her Instagram (@amirahoneal) showcases her training and personal style, blending athleticism with fashion.
Shaqir O’Neal: The Emerging Talent
Shaqir O’Neal, born on April 19, 2003, is 22 years old and stands at 6’7”. A point guard at Texas Southern University, Shaqir transferred from Crossroads School to Union Grove High School to hone his skills. In 2025, he’s rated a four-star recruit and has impressed NCAA scouts with his playmaking, averaging 5 assists per game, per 247Sports.
Shaqir’s lean frame is bulking up, and his father’s guidance has been pivotal. Shaq’s rule against weight training until Shaqir’s growth spurt ended has paid off, with his agility now complemented by newfound strength. Follow his progress on X.
Me’arah O’Neal: The Youngest Athlete
Me’arah O’Neal, born on May 1, 2006, is 19 years old and 6’3” tall. A freshman at University of Florida in 2025, she plays for the Gators’ women’s basketball team. Despite CIF rules limiting her varsity play in high school, Me’arah’s talent shone through, earning her a spot as a McDonald’s All-American in 2024. Her vertical leap and shooting range make her a standout, per MaxPreps.
Me’arah’s youthful energy and dedication echo her father’s work ethic. Her Instagram highlights her journey from high school to college hoops.
Myles O’Neal: The Fashion Icon
Myles O’Neal, born May 8, 1997, is 28 years old and 6’3” tall. Shaunie’s son from a previous relationship, Myles was adopted by Shaq and took his surname in 2002. Unlike his siblings, Myles pursued modeling and DJing, walking for brands like Dolce & Gabbana and Chanel during Milan Fashion Week. His net worth is estimated at $1.5 million, per Celebrity Net Worth.
Myles’ Instagram (@mylesboneal) boasts over 200,000 followers, showcasing his vibrant career in fashion and music. His unique path highlights the diversity of Shaq’s family.
Biography Table of Shaquille O’Neal’s Children
| Name | Details |
|---|---|
| Taahirah O’Neal | Born: July 18, 1996; Age: 29; Height: 5’5”; Career: Communications, Non-profit |
| Shareef O’Neal | Born: January 11, 2000; Age: 25; Height: 6’10”; Career: G League Basketball Player |
| Amirah O’Neal | Born: November 13, 2001; Age: 23; Height: 6’1”; Career: LSU Basketball Player |
| Shaqir O’Neal | Born: April 19, 2003; Age: 22; Height: 6’7”; Career: Texas Southern Basketball Player |
| Me’arah O’Neal | Born: May 1, 2006; Age: 19; Height: 6’3”; Career: Florida Gators Basketball Player |
| Myles O’Neal | Born: May 8, 1997; Age: 28; Height: 6’3”; Career: Model, DJ |
Unique Insights and Family Dynamics
Shaq’s children reflect a blend of athletic prowess and individual ambition. Shareef and Amirah’s professional aspirations in basketball align with Shaq’s legacy, while Taahirah and Myles showcase the family’s versatility. Shaq’s height (7’1”) and weight (325 lbs during his career) set a physical standard, but his children’s diverse builds and styles highlight their unique approaches to the sport and life.
A 2024 interview with Shaq on The Big Podcast revealed his parenting philosophy: “I push them to be themselves, not me. I give them the tools, but they choose the path.” This approach has fostered independence, evident in Shareef’s recovery from heart surgery and Myles’ pivot to fashion.
Conclusion
Shaquille O’Neal’s children—Taahirah, Shareef, Amirah, Shaqir, Me’arah, and Myles—are forging their own legacies, from basketball courts to fashion runways. With Shaq’s net worth of $500 million and his supportive presence, they have unique opportunities to shine. Whether you’re curious about their ages, heights, or careers, this family’s story is one of resilience and diversity. Stay updated on their journeys via their social media and Wikipedia.
