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Nicole “Hoopz” Alexander, Shaquille O’Neal
Nicole “Hoopz” Alexander earned her baller nickname when she appeared as a contestant on the first season of VH1’s “Flavor of Love.” Hoopz won the game show for a chance to date rapper Flavor Flav of Public Enemy. The reality show relationship ultimately failed, but led to another hoop romance.
In 2008, Hoopz reappeared on VH1, this time winning a much more lucrative prize of $250K on reality show “I Love Money.” She began dating NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal in 2010, shortly after he had filed for divorce.
The couple lived together in Boston but, like Shaq’s time as a Celtic, it didn’t last. They ended their relationship in 2012.
Larsa Pippen, Scottie Pippen
Larsa Younan was born and raised in Chicago, IL, which led to her falling in love with hometown hero Scottie Pippen. The two married in 1997. While the Chicago Bulls superstar played out his HOF career, Larsa’s time to shine came later on.
In 2011, Larsa starred in the ensemble cast of The Real Housewives of Miami. Although she left after the show’s first season, she has since made a variety of reality show appearances. She also remains a leader of the Pippen Foundation, which focuses on fundraising for children’s charities.
Matt Barnes, Derek Fisher, wives
Govan and Barnes wed in 2013 and had twin boys, but the marriage ended in rocky fashion. Why did Barnes and Govan split in 2016? Apparently, Barnes’ former Lakers teammate Derek Fisher had been seeing her. Fisher continued dating Govan after the divorce was final… and they say chivalry’s dead.
Shannon Walker Williams, Ray Allen
Before Shannon Walker Williams met NBA sharpshooter Ray Allen, she was developing her career in showbiz as a singer and actor. Williams sang with the short-lived female R&B group Shades from 1996-97. Afterwards, she focused her career on television and film.
Williams and Allen began dating in 2004. They married in 2008 and have four children together. They’re active advocates for diabetes awareness, a disease which nearly caused the death of their son, Walker.
Allen finished his NBA career with the Heat, and the family resides in Miami.
