Basketball babies: Kobe, Shaq become fathers again


Just like old times, Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal are celebrating. The former Lakers teammates became fathers again Monday when their wives gave birth to girls six minutes apart. After hitting shots Sunday afternoon that put the game into overtime and then beat the Phoenix Suns at the buzzer, Kobe Bryant went to the hospital, where his wife, Vanessa, gave birth early Monday morning to their second child. Gianna Maria-Onore Bryant was born at 2:03 a.m. PDT in Orange County, Calif. Kobe and Vanessa Bryant are already parents to 3-year-old Natalia.

"The arrival of our new daughter Gianna early this morning is such an incredible blessing for me and my family." Bryant said in a statement. "We are all full of beautiful emotions after such an incredible day."

Heat center Shaquille O'Neal is a father for the sixth time. He and his wife, Shaunie, welcomed a new daughter. Mearah Sanaa O'Neal was born just before 5 a.m. Monday morning, and team officials said the baby girl and her mother were resting comfortably. It's the third girl for the O'Neals, with Mearah joining sisters Taahirah and Amirah and brothers Myles, Shareef and Shaqir, who turned 3 last month.

What baby gifts can you get two basketbasket stars who seem to have everything already? How about these creative baby gift ideas for any sports fan parents:

Baby Athlete Gift Basket - This luxurious wagon comes loaded with all sports themed items. A must for the future all-star and Dad too.

All Star Sports Mini Rocker - This toddler rocking chair is beautifully handcrafted and hand-decorated wooden "heirlooms-to-be" that are sure to delight your favorite little rocker!

All Star Sports Rocker - This rocking chair for kids is creative and playful. Each chair is more than a rocking chair. It is sure to become a buddy, a best friend and a treasured part of a special little one's memories!

All Star Sports Toy Box Bench - This creative toy chest has fun seat back design with ball bats, spinning soccer ball, basketball, football, baseball and hockey puck, and real chalkboard scoreboard!

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 posted by celebritybaby