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Shaquille O'Neal posted a solemn message on Instagram following the release of his ex-wife Shaunie Henderson's memoir, where the star of Basketball Wives raised doubts about her feelings towards the former NBA player.
In her recently published memoir titled "UNDEFEATED: Changing the Rules and Winning on My Own Terms," released on May 7, 49-year-old Henderson reflects, "Looking back, I don't know that I was ever really in love with the man," referring to O'Neal, whom she wed in 2002.
Their relationship, which commenced in the late 90s and concluded in 2009 when Henderson filed for separation, was marked by challenges, including O'Neal's admission of infidelity in his own 2011 memoir, "Shaq Uncut: My Story."
Henderson elaborates in her memoir that she "was in love with the idea of being married to the man I had a family with" and "was in love with the idea of building a life together" during their union.
O'Neal and Henderson are parents to four children: sons Shareef and Shaqir, daughters Amirah and Me'arah, while also co-parenting Henderson's son Myles from a previous relationship and O'Neal's daughter, Taahirah, from his former girlfriend Arnetta Yardbourgh.
Henderson acknowledges that while she genuinely enjoyed spending time with O'Neal, the pressures of his high-profile status and the constant attention from admirers strained their relationship.
On May 8, O'Neal responded to Henderson's sentiments with a seemingly pointed Instagram post, stating, "I understand...I wouldn't have been in love with me either. Wishing you all the best. All love, Shaq." This message was overlaid on a black screen.
O'Neal's caption, "Trust me I get it," accompanied the post, which garnered an outpouring of support from fans and well-wishers, including heartfelt messages from their son Shareef.
In response to the announcement of her memoir in January, Henderson expressed apprehension about sharing intimate details of her relationship with the NBA icon but felt compelled to address public misconceptions about her.
Now married to Pastor Keion Henderson, the mother-of-five explained that navigating discussions about O'Neal always carries sensitivity due to his public persona. However, she found solace in his prior admission of infidelity, which she believes eased the process of sharing her story.
Henderson emphasized that her intent was never to tarnish O'Neal's reputation but rather to share her personal journey authentically while respecting his role within it.
