“Rip My Sweet Girl”: Shaquille O’Neal’s Daughters Mourn Devastating Loss of Childhood Companion

The O’Neal family has lost their littlest member of the family. Shaq’s daughters Me’arah O’Neal and Amirah O’Neal took to their Instagram to share the news about the passing of Cali O’Neal, who was a large part of their childhood. Although it was a tough time for young baller Me’arah, she did not let the moment get the best of her. The 18-year-old was back to work, just a few hours after paying her tribute. 

It looks like Shaquille O’Neal had more than six children all these years. Cali O’Neal, the bulldog, has been a part of the family for well over a decade, often being clicked with the O’Neals. Upon the passing of the little one, Me’arah and Amirah extended their wishes. “Rest in Paradise…Cali bby,” the youngest one wrote, sharing a picture of young Cali from about 11 years ago. 

Amirah O’Neal added to her story, “You truly made my childhood 100x better…Rip to my sweet girl”, sharing her tribute. Shareef O’Neal, who made the last appearance on Cali’s Instagram handle, also chimed in, sharing a series of her pictures, right from Cali as a puppy. “RIP CALI, imma miss you, all my real day ones know Cali,” he penned. Cali naturally seems to have been a good part of Shaq kids’ lives. But they ensured not to fall deep into this sorrow. 

Me’arah O’Neal, the 18-year-old is about to take a big step in her basketball career. Unfazed and determined, her update showcased the young talent, up and ready for what’s to come next. 

Me’arah O’Neal will not let any distraction get the best of her

Me’arah shared a video of practicing free three frows, just a few hours after paying her tribute to Cali O’Neal. She is about to enter college basketball and recently starred in the McDonald’s All-American game for being dominant in high school. The 6’3 star joined the sets of Inside the NBA, where Shaq revealed her All-American jersey to the live viewers. 

Despite having two baller brothers in the family, Me’arah was only the second member of the O’Neal family to make it to the All-American game, after Shaq. The Big Diesel takes immense pride in it. In November 2023, the 18-year-old signed with the University of Florida, choosing a different path from her dad, who played for the LSU Tigers.

Me’arah got offers from various universities, but she was adamant about playing for the Florida Gators in the upcoming season of college basketball. This is probably the biggest stage of her life. There is a long way to go, but this start sure looks promising. 

Stay tuned for more such updates, and to follow what Shaq’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato, has to say about the Reese-Clark rivalry and more, watch this video.