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Is Shaunie O'Neal leaving 'Basketball Wives'? Here's who fans think may replace her after Season 9

In Episode 1 of 'Basketball Wives' Season 9, the executive producer revealed that she will be moving to Houston, Texas, to be closer to her kids — Mimi O'neal and Shareef O'Neal

Shaunie O'Neal is the leader of the pack and has always been in a leadership role. Not because of her strong backstory on 'Basketball Wives' but the fact that she is one of the brains behind the VH1 reality show.

However, things are changing and she's looking to start a new chapter but how will this new move impact the cast dynamics? Only time will tell. In Episode 1 of 'Basketball Wives' Season 9, the executive producer revealed that she will be moving to Houston, Texas, to be closer to her kids — Mimi O'neal and Shareef O'Neal. They both are following in their father's footsteps and going to Louisiana State University. 

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Shaunie is supportive of their decision but at the same time wondering how her life would change with the children away. The house will start to feel empty but if it's basketball they wish to pursue then necessary changes must be made. However, she felt the tension when the time came to break it to cast members, especially Jackie Christie because she is "not so good with change". 

Eventually, when Shanie got around to spilling the tea about her big move, Jackie was anything but upset for her. She couldn't be more thrilled and was already planning a farewell party but not before she expressed how that would shuffle up the vibe that the cast has going on in the show and that she'd miss her. 

So, does this mean this is Shaunie's last season? Either that or she could start a Houston edition of the show. For now, fans think newbie Liza Morales could take on the mantle. Yes, it's premature to make such predictions but the lady has got everything she needs to lead from the front — for starters, a strong narrative. She was dating Khloe Kardashian's ex-husband Lamar Odom.

"So is Liza being brought in to replace Shaunie when she moves to Houston, for next season? Is that why she was brought on? #BasketballWives," a fan wondered, while another tweeted: "So they're making this a going away party for SHAUNIE??? Fuck herrrrrrr! #BasketballWives." 

"#BasketballWives Shaunie moving to Houston means one thing: Basketball Wives: Houston ! It's comin' ya'll!," a user speculated. "Omg Shaunie going to Houston ...Ole shit here comes Basketball wives of Houston!!! #BasketballWivesLA #basketballwives," a fan posted.

Catch all the new episodes of 'Basketball Wives' Season 9 on VH1 every Tuesday at 8/7c. For more information, check your local listings.