Shaquille O’Neal’s ex-wife, Shaunie Henderson, is an American television personality, entrepreneur, and producer. She was determined to make her late father, the first man she loved, proud.
She married Shaquille on December 26, 2002, but their divorce was finalized in 2011. After the divorce, she married Pastor Keion Henderson in May 2022.
Shaunie first rose to prominence as the creator and executive producer of the groundbreaking VH1 series Basketball Wives, which became a cultural phenomenon.
The show not only dominated ratings but also sparked meaningful conversations about relationships, entrepreneurship, and the challenges faced by women in the public eye.
Her ambitions extended far beyond reality TV. She launched Amirah, Inc., a multimedia production company dedicated to uplifting marginalized voices through film, television, and digital content.
Amirah, named after her eldest daughter, represents her commitment to building a legacy and creating opportunities for the next generation of storytellers.
Shaunie is a passionate advocate for women and people of color, and her production company focuses on projects that center women and people of color.
Moreover, she co-hosts the GroowZone podcast alongside her husband, Pastor Keion Henderson, where they discuss relationships, personal growth, and spiritual wisdom.
Shaunie Henderson Credits Her Success To Her Overprotective Parents
Behind Shaunie Henderson’s success lies a deeply personal story about her upbringing and the profound influence of her parents, particularly her strict yet loving father.
During an appearance on The GrOOwZone Podcast, she opened up about her childhood, revealing how her father’s overprotective nature shaped her early years.
Shaunie grew up under a highly protective father. She confessed that she was strictly prohibited from hanging out with boys, a rule that kept her from typical teenage fun.
However, she acknowledges that her father’s intentions came from a place of love and concern. His strict parenting style instilled discipline in her, which later contributed to her resilience and success.
My dad was so strict. I hated it growing up. I couldn’t do anything that involved boys. He just didn’t want me to be hurt. He was overprotective and I didn’t get to do much. In the long run, I’m kind of thankful. I trusted him with everything. I knew he had my front, back, and sides.
Shaunie Henderson
Sadly, she shared devastating news that her father had passed away unexpectedly. Overcome with grief, she took to social media to honor him with a heartfelt tribute, vowing to continue making him proud.
The fact that the loss occurred amid a significant life turning point, her marriage to Pastor Keion Henderson, made it particularly painful.
In her memoir, Undefeated: Changing The Rules And Winning On My Terms, Shaunie reflected on the emotional struggle of planning her wedding while mourning her father.
I didn’t know how to disconnect Dad from the wedding planning. Do I just cancel everything that’s so wonderful right now to sit in this place of grief and pain?
Shaunie Henderson
One of the most heartbreaking moments for Shaunie was not having her father walk her down the aisle.
However, her children stepped in to fulfill that role, honoring their grandfather’s absence in a profoundly emotional gesture.
Although Shaunie’s father isn’t physically present, she continued to uphold the values he instilled in her.
She remains committed to her promise years after his passing, thriving in her career, raising her children with the same love and discipline, and impacting the entertainment industry.
The first man I ever loved is gone. For some reason, it doesn’t seem real at times. But in those moments that it gets tough, I hear your voice. One thing about my dad is that he loved a good time. It was going to be nothing but laughs mixed with him “kickin some knowledge” lol. He left us with SO MANY beautiful memories. My goal is to continue making you proud…. I Love you Daddy.
Shaunie Henderson
Shaunie Henderson’s Failed Marriage With Shaquille O’Neal And A New Beginning With Pastor Keion Henderson
Shaunie Henderson was once known as the wife of NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal. The couple married and blended their families on December 26, 2002.
Shaunie had a son from a previous relationship, Myles, whom Shaq adopted, and Shaq had a daughter, Taahirah, from an earlier relationship. They welcomed four children: Shareef, Amirah, Shaqir, and Me’arah.
Their marriage appeared to be a picture of love and success. However, their relationship had ups and downs, which led Shaq to file for divorce in 2007, only to reconcile shortly after.
Unfortunately, the reconciliation didn’t last. On November 10, 2009, Shaunie filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences, and their split was finalized in 2011.
Shaq admitted his faults in the marriage, acknowledging that his mistakes and greed contributed to its downfall.
He dated TV star Nicole “Hoopz” Alexander in the summer of 2010 and a model, Laticia Rolle, in early 2014.
Despite the challenges, Shaunie remained focused on co-parenting and building a strong foundation for her children.
You know when you get older, you try to think about the mistakes that you made that could have been avoided. Divorce is definitely one of them.
Shaquille O’Neal
After her divorce, Shaunie rebuilt her life before finding love again with Pastor Keion Henderson, a charismatic preacher and motivational speaker.
The couple dated for nearly two years before getting engaged during a romantic getaway to a tropical island in 2021.
On May 28, 2022, Shaunie and Keion exchanged vows in a breathtaking outdoor ceremony at the Aurora Anguilla Resort and Golf Club.
Surrounded by about 200 guests, Shaunie made a stunning entrance in a sparkling Jean Louis Sabajai gown, escorted by her three sons, Myles, Shareef, and Shaqir.
Her daughters, Amirah and Me’arah, also played notable roles in the celebration.
Shaunie emphasized the importance of family, calling her children her “package deal” and expressing gratitude for their support.
The wedding symbolized a union between two people and the blending of their lives, faith, and families.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Shaquille Rashaun O’Neal, the son of Lucille O’Neal and Joe Toney, was born on March 6, 1972, in Newark, New Jersey.
- He comes from a tall family, stands 216 cm tall, and weighs 147 kg.
- The four-time NBA champion retired from professional playing on June 3, 2011.
- As of 2025, his net worth is estimated at $500 million, and he earns $60 million annually.
