In a new interview with @goodmorningamerica, Shaquille O’Neal’s son Shareef talks about his own health scare and what it was like undergoing open-heart surgery at 18. During the conversation, he also shared that he recently connected with LeBron James’ son Bronny James and offered to help in his recovery following his recent cardiac arrest.
As it was previously reported, just a few weeks before joining the UCLA team in 2018 — and coming in as the top-ranked basketball recruit in California — Shareef was diagnosed with anomalous coronary artery; a condition that can result in chest pain, heart failure, and even sudden cardiac death. While looking back at his challenging journey, he remembered the moments he questioned: “If basketball is ever going to be an option again.” However, Shareef eventually returned to the court at full strength. He credits his legendary dad for his motivating words which he’s now passing on to Bronny.
“He’s like, ‘If you make it out of this, you’ll be the baddest man on the planet,'” Shareef said while sharing the advice his father Shaq gave to him. “And that kind of just builds a fire up in you and makes you want to go back and get it.” Shareef told GMA that he believes Bronny will make a full recovery and he also made it clear that he’ll be here to help if he needs him. “Any questions you have, you can ask me,” Shareef said of his message to Bronny. “I can probably answer them for you.”
RELATED: Shareef O’Neal Reacts To Troll Blaming Him For Bronny James’ Cardiac Incident: ‘You Need Help’
More On Bronny James’ Health Scare
Earlier this week, Bronny James, suffered cardiac arrest during practice at the University of Southern California. He was rushed to the hospital, where he was in ICU but is now in stable condition. A rep for the family confirmed the news in a statement saying,
“Yesterday while practicing Bronny James suffered a cardiac arrest. Medical staff was able to treat Bronny and take him to the hospital. He is now in stable condition and no longer in ICU,” the Tuesday statement began. “We ask for respect and privacy for the James family and we will update media when there is more information.” The spokesperson added, “LeBron and Savannah wish to publicly send their deepest thanks and appreciation to the USC medical and athletic staff for their incredible work and dedication to the safety of their athletes.”
After his news surfaced online, sports fans instantly began purging in prayers and well wishes. However, it has also garnered conspiracy and shockingly some trolls. One rude person tweeted, “Bronny started hanging with Shareef and now look. @SSJreef stay yo ass away from him he’s destined for greatness not overseas 😆.”
In a since-deleted tweet captured by TMZ Sports, Shareef slammed the person and the remark, “That is very disrespectful of you to say. I’ve been around Bronny for a very long time before this happened … I’ll pray for you. You need help … sick that you would even say something like that 🤦🏾♂️🤦🏾♂️🤦🏾♂️#dummy.”
As distasteful as that was, it seems like Shareef is past that and is focused on being there for his good friend, Bronny.
Press Play Below For More:
As Lebron James’ family remain by Bronny’s side after his cardiac arrest, Shaquille O’Neal’s son Shareef speaks out about his own health scare and what it was like undergoing open-heart surgery at 18. @molareports has more. pic.twitter.com/YaavQM64pl
— Good Morning America (@GMA) July 27, 2023