Shaunie O’Neal

Shaunie O'Neal is an American television personality, executive producer, and entrepreneur, best known for her pivotal role in the creation of the VH1 reality TV franchise Basketball Wives. Born Va’Shaundya Karlette Nelson on November 27, 1974, she gained initial public attention as the wife of NBA legend Shaquille O'Neal, though she has since established her own identity in the entertainment industry.

Shaunie was instrumental in developing "Basketball Wives," "Basketball Wives LA," and related spinoffs, serving as executive producer and often appearing on camera. The shows follow the lives of women romantically linked to professional basketball players, blending elements of glamour, drama, and business ambition. Under her creative direction, the series became a staple of VH1's reality lineup and a cultural touchpoint in early 2010s reality TV.

Beyond television, Shaunie has ventured into fashion, philanthropy, and public speaking. In recent years, she’s also been open about her personal evolution, including her co-parenting relationship with Shaquille after their 2011 divorce and her subsequent remarriage to pastor Keion Henderson in 2022.