Shaquille O'Neal's wife splitting up with Cleveland Cavaliers center

Associated Press

Last update: November 11, 2009 - 12:06 AM

LOS ANGELES - Shaquille O'Neal's wife is splitting up with the Cleveland Cavaliers center.

Va'Shaundya O'Neal filed for legal separation with intent to divorce Monday in Los Angeles. She cited irreconcilable differences.

She is seeking spousal and child support and full legal custody of the couple's four children. No monetary amounts were listed in the court filing.

"Obviously, this is a difficult time for our family, and we request that the media respect our privacy," Shaquille O'Neal said in a statement released by the team Tuesday night. "I will continue to focus on being there for our children and I am confident that Shaunie will do the same."

The O'Neals were married six years, 11 months.

Shaquille O'Neal is a 15-time All-Star center with four NBA titles with the Los Angeles Lakers and Miami Heat. He was traded from the Phoenix Suns to the Cavaliers in June.

Recent Timberwolves stories

Hornets stop Suns - November 11, 2009

Hornets stop Suns - • NEW ORLEANS 110, PHOENIX 103: Peja Stojakovic, right, made seven three-pointers during a 25-point, 13-rebound game as the host Hornets beat the Suns on Thursday night. New Orleans won its second in a row under new coach Jeff Bower. Jared Dudley hit five of six three-pointers and scored 17 for Phoenix. More