After another complicated season for him, Shareef O’Neal has made a big decision regarding his future. What immediately make his dad Shaq react, who had very strong words.
At 22, Shareef O’Neal hasn’t had the linear progression that many sons of former NBA players have had. Far from Bronny James, Kenyon Martin Jr, Zaire Wade and others, the eldest of Shaq must constantly overcome obstacles. In addition to his big heart operation which could have ended his career altogether, “Reef” failed to find the university where he could exploit his talent.
First in failure at UCLA, he thought of reviving on the side of LSU, where his father had shone so much 3 decades ago. But after two seasons, the situation is clear: with an average of 2.9 points for only 9 minutes of play, the Tigers are not really counting on him.
Shareef O’Neal changes college, Shaq praises him strongly
Aware that his status will not change at LSU, Shareef has therefore decided to register his name on the transfer portal and leave his college once again:
Report: Shareef O’Neal is entering the transfer portal:https://t.co/FgXdT4v3ep pic.twitter.com/FvaJdgv0cw
— TigerDroppings (@TigerDroppings) March 29, 2022
Shareef O’Neal integrates the transfer portal.
The news quickly made Shaquille react, who did not hesitate to tackle his ex-college and hyper his offspring with very powerful words:
I hope that wherever he goes, he will be given a chance. What people don’t know is that my kid is Giannis with a jump shot. Yeah, I have a Giannis Antetokounmpo with a jump shot, but people don’t know that. So hopefully wherever he goes he can demonstrate his talent so people can see who he really is.
His decision is his, and I support him. He is an adult, he makes his choice in soul and conscience.
We must not forget that he had a lot of “bad luck basketball” in his career. We went to UCLA because we thought Steve Alford (the coach, editor’s note) would be there, but he changed teams and another guy took his place. Then we go to LSU where I thought they would take care of him, but they didn’t.
Still hampered by recurring injury issues to top it off, Shareef was never able to have true continuity over several weeks and months. This is precisely what he wants, as well as more minutes and a bigger role, in the new stage that awaits him. Because at 22, time is running out.
Shaquille O’Neal fully supports his son’s decision to leave LSU, where he was not fulfilled. For this new experience in the NCAA, “Reef” is playing double or nothing and he knows it. Let’s wish him to be inspired in his choice, and to finally flourish.
