Having a Hall of Famer’s last name may earn respect, but it doesn’t shield you from criticism. Shaqir O’Neal, the youngest son of NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal, is experiencing this firsthand as he grinds his way through college basketball.
Most recently, Shaqir found himself in the middle of a heated exchange with a courtside fan during Florida A&M’s matchup against Jackson State. A viral Instagram clip captured the moment, highlighting the intensity of the SWAC conference:
Grand entrance! Shaquille O’Neal gets introduced at NBA All-Star Game escorted by a dog robot
“One thing I love about the SWAC is the endless amount of trash-talking between the players and fans. You gotta have some tough skin to compete… especially when your dad is one of the greats of the game! As JSU started to seal the win, some fans gave Shaqir O’Neal a lil heat and he didn’t back down.”
But if anyone is prepared for this kind of treatment, it’s Shaqir. After all, he’s been dealing with some of the best trash talkers his whole life-starting with his own father.
At 21, Shaqir O’Neal has already taken a unique path through college basketball. Initially playing for Texas Southern University, he transferred to Florida A&M University (FAMU) in July 2024 in search of more playing time.
His first stint at Texas Southern saw limited opportunities, averaging just 1.4 points per game in the 2022-2023 season.
However, his move to FAMU proved to be a turning point. On February 17, 2025, he delivered his first collegiate double-double, recording 12 points, 10 rebounds, and 2 blocks in an 85-76 victory over Alcorn State.
This season, he’s averaging 7.5 points and 3.1 rebounds per game while shooting an efficient 51.4% from the field. Though not yet a standout star, Shaqir‘s steady improvement shows his potential. But even strong performances won’t stop the taunts-something he’s long since learned to deal with.
Facing the ultimate trash talker-his own Father
If anyone could prepare Shaqir for relentless heckling, it’s Shaquille O’Neal himself.
A memorable episode of Life of Shaq, the family’s web series, gave fans a glimpse into their competitive dynamic. Shaqir had moved to Atlanta to train with his father, believing that learning from a four-time NBA champion would give him an edge. But when the two hit the court, things quickly turned comedic.
Despite his Hall of Fame status, Shaq struggled with his shot, missing multiple attempts-including an airball. Shaqir didn’t hesitate to call him out, but his dad was quick with a response.
“I’m a Hall of Famer, you are not. I got four rings, you ain’t got four rings, so it doesn’t matter,” Shaq fired back.
With a father who never holds back, it’s no surprise Shaqir isn’t fazed by rowdy fans.
He’s been conditioned to handle the pressure his entire life. Now, as he continues his journey at FAMU, he’s proving that he’s more than just a famous last name-he’s ready to carve out his own legacy.
