Earlier this year, Shaunie Henderson’s statement from her memoir spread like wildfire. “Looking back, I don’t know that I was ever really in love with the man.” The 49-year-old later clarified that it wasn’t her intention to besmirch anybody. All she wrote was her truth and her life experiences. In her memoir, the mother of 5 also clarified that the successful show Basketball Wives happened because of her hard work. Not because of Shaq’s connection or influence.

In Undefeated, “Let’s set the record straight. Nobody pulled strings for me with TV networks or production companies to get Basketball Wives picked up. I did that on my own, through persistence and sheer force of will, because I had to support myself and my children.” Previously, Shaunie had mentioned that she decided against her lawyer’s advice as she never wanted money from Shaq.

The narratives could be because Shaunie filed for divorce in 2009, and 2010 was when the show premiered. But because she was part of the close circle of other athletes’ partners, she realized the problems that they were facing. “I’d gotten to know the wives as they watched their husbands get traded, get injured-and all too often, get caught fooling around with women they met on the road.”

So she was confident she could create a show based on authenticity and real stories. Ultimately, it became a hit and currently, the 11th season is on air. That’s why in her book she specified that it was her parents and children who motivated Shaunie to pursue her dreams. Even though there is no bitterness in the statement, she had to clarify that it was her hard work and not a handout from Shaquille O’Neal.

From her experiences with Shaq, Shaunie decided to launch her platform

That’s the point she also discussed in her interview with xoNecole. The book was also a hit, but before that, she discussed the challenges. “I knew that I had lost my voice before, and I wanted to provide a space to ensure that other women didn’t lose theirs.” It was the major reason why Shaunie was so sure about her idea of the Basketball Wives.

The first lady of Houston Lighthouse Church said it was important to provide a platform. Thus, it helped them gain other opportunities apart from being part of the reality TV show. Because she wanted to be independent, she decided it would be best to do the same for others.

Before her marriage to Shaquille O’Neal, she was working as a film promoter. During the marriage, taking care of kids was of paramount importance, and lived off an ‘allowance’ from him. But the motivation from the loved ones made sure that she took the big step with the show. Similarly, it was Keion, her husband, who pushed her to release her memoir.

“Stay tuned for more such updates and join us for the exciting second episode of the “Dual Threat Show” as our host BG12 sits down with Georgia Bulldogs star and Mountain West All-Freshman Team Selection, Asia Avinger.”