Is Shaquille O’Neal’s youngest son ready to hold his legendary father’s baton? Shaqir O'Neal is entering the NCAA Transfer Portal after only one season on the Florida A&M men’s basketball team. With this huge decision, the 21-year-old forward is changing the trajectory of his basketball career. However, given the stats he has been maintaining since the past season, it doesn’t come off as too surprising. Overall, he is an excellent scorer who can score in bunches when he supposedly is “in the zone.” But how does that translate?
The FAMU forward has been laying the groundwork for a while now. He not only showed tremendous improvement as a shooter with the Rattlers but also as a defensive rebounder. During the first and only season with the Rattlers, O’Neal recorded an average of 6.7 points per game to go along with 3.4 rebounds for 18 minutes per game. While shooting 50.3% from the floor overall, he knocked down 37.5% of his 3-point attempts.
Looking back, this is not the first time the young forward is transferring in his college basketball career. He had switched to Florida A&M after a two-year stint at Texas Southern. O’Neal appeared in 41 games during his time with the Tigers, starting in two games. Recently, his sister, Me’arah O’Neal, took to social media to share the news. She reshared a post from the official handle of the transfer portal on her Instagram story. She captioned the story, “gods plan.”
Since Shaqir O’Neal has entered the transfer market again, the options are plenty. He could deliberate and decide to go to the program that suits his needs the best, given he gets the opportunity. Let’s check out his current options.
Where Could Shaqir O’Neal Transfer?
The big question is—where would Shaqir O’Neal land? He’s got the size, the name, and flashes of potential, thanks to his legendary father. But finding the right spot is everything. A return to Georgia could be the move. Georgia State and Georgia Southern both have openings in the frontcourt, and since Shaqir is familiar, having played his high school ball in Georgia, heading back home could be a reset he needs. Georgia State, in particular, needs help at forward, while Georgia Southern could use his experience to fill some key gaps. Either way, both schools would give him a real shot at playing time, something he needs desperately.
1. Georgia State - This program is actively looking to bolster its roster as they rebuild for the next season. Given Shaqir's stats and improvement at Florida A&M, he could provide the depth they desperately require in the forward position. It also presents an opportunity for him to showcase his skills in a program that has proven successful in recruiting.
2. Georgia Southern - Similar to Georgia State, this school offers a familiar environment and potential early playing time. The coaching staff would likely appreciate Shaqir's physicality and versatility, which can help fill any frontcourt gaps. Moving to Georgia Southern could benefit his development while also allowing him to compete at a competitive level in the Sun Belt Conference.
3.
Southern University: A Competitive HBCU Option
- If Shaqir wants to stay within the HBCU scene, transitioning to Southern University might be his best choice. Having recently won the SWAC regular-season title, the momentum and basketball culture at Southern University would offer him an exciting competitive environment. Adding his size and athleticism could be a key factor in maintaining the university's prowess in basketball while supporting his growth as a player.
4.
LSU: Pursuing a Legacy
- The ultimate dream landing spot would be to join LSU, the same institution where his father gained recognition. Although the Tigers might not necessarily need him as a project player, the connection to Shaquille O’Neal could lead to invaluable opportunities not readily available elsewhere. If LSU aims to keep the O’Neal legacy alive, bringing in Shaqir might not be the wildest thought, particularly in light of his familial connections.
Shaquille O'Neal Son Transfer Options amount to more than just proximity and familiar turf; it’s about securing a platform to develop further, proving he is much more than his father’s name. Shaqir’s basketball journey is reflective of balancing legacy with personal ambitions—something that cannot be understated in today’s competitive sports landscape.
Evaluating Potential Moves
Focusing on the route ahead, here are key considerations for Shaqir O’Neal’s next steps
- Playing Time: Which schools offer the best immediate playing opportunities?
- Development: Where can he grow as a player under experienced coaching staff?
- Competitiveness: What level of competition will he face at his potential new school?
- Legacy vs. Independence: How does he balance his father's legacy with his own career ambitions?
Ultimately, Shaqir O'Neal stands at a crossroads in his career. His next move will be critical in shaping his path, providing him with the chance to carve out his identity within college basketball. As he navigates the NCAA Transfer Portal, the possibilities stretch far and wide, guided by potential, familiarity, and the pursuit of excellence in his playing career.