Shaunie Henderson, who was married to the NBA legend from 2002 to 2009, makes the shocking confession in her new book, 'Undefeated: Changing the Rules and Winning On My Own Terms'.
- May 9, 2024
AceShowbiz - Shaquille O'Neal has reacted to ex-wife Shaunie Henderson's comment saying that she may have never loved him. Catching wind of the controversial remark, the NBA legend took to Instagram to share his shocking response.
In an Instagram post, shared on Wednesday, May 8, Shaq noted that he could understand where the comment came from. "I understand… I wouldn't have been in love with me either," the 52-year-old basketball icon. "Wishing you all the best [heart emoji]. All love, Shaq."
Fans praised Shaq for taking the high road. "Accountability and growth is rare . This man gets it…," one wrote in the comments section. Another added, "Literally the kindest man I ever met next to my father."
Someone else left a lengthy comment that read, "Shaq, I applaud your growth in transparency and accountability. This level of maturity is rare, especially in your line of business. You will continue to be a great influence on our future athletes for this type of respect and support - more importantly to your children who I know love you dearly. People in the comments need to remember there are children involved of all ages - be kind and loving."
Shaunie made the confession in her new book, "Undefeated: Changing the Rules and Winning On My Own Terms". In the memoir, the 49-year-old penned, "Looking back, I don't know that I was ever really in love with the man, but I was in love with the idea of being married to the man I had a family with," per Essence.
The "Basketball Wives" executive producer added, "I was in love with the idea of building a life together. I truly did enjoy spending time with him. [NBA] road trips allowed me to be with my husband and experience the NBA life for a little while."
Shaunie, however, defended him while citing the challenges he faced balancing fame, wealth, and family. "He was trying to be a world-famous, thirty-something multimillionaire with thousands of women throwing themselves at him, and people in general begging just to be in his presence, while being a husband and a father simultaneously," she explained. "How could anyone possibly know how to do that?"
Shaunie and Shaq got married in 2002 before calling it quits in 2009.
