Taahirah O’Neal, the eldest daughter of NBA Hall of Famer Shaquille O’Neal, has joined the board of The Shaquille O’Neal Foundation and assumed oversight of a $24 million youth athletic facility project in Las Vegas.
The magna cum laude graduate holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a minor in Politics and African American studies. She previously worked in marketing for brands including Pepsi and Big Chicken before transitioning to foundation work.
Taahirah has been involved with the Shaquille O’Neal Youth Development Complex since its inception in June 2025.
Facility Details and Timeline
The youth athletic facility is currently under construction in the northeast Las Vegas valley. The project is scheduled for completion in 2026.
Once operational, the complex will provide athletic programming for hundreds of children from grades K-12 and beyond. Sports offerings include basketball, football, combat sports, and additional activities.
The facility represents one of the larger youth sports infrastructure investments in the Las Vegas area in recent years.
Partnership Structure and Community Impact
The project operates as a joint venture between The Shaquille O’Neal Foundation, local government entities, and several sports franchises. The primary beneficiary is the Boys & Girls Club organization.
This partnership model combines private foundation resources with public sector support and professional sports involvement to expand youth athletic access in the region.
The collaboration aims to increase participation opportunities for young athletes in an area experiencing significant population growth.
Continuing a Personal Connection
Shaquille O’Neal developed his basketball skills as a youth at Boys & Girls Club facilities, creating a personal connection to the organization that has shaped his philanthropic focus throughout his post-playing career.
Taahirah O’Neal addressed the project’s significance in a statement: “I’m so proud to help carry my father’s legacy forward while also building my own path in service.”
The complex represents both a continuation of the family’s commitment to youth development and Taahirah’s expanding role in sports-focused philanthropy.
SOURCE: youthsportsbusinessreport.com