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Published -
- January 29, 2020
- 1:25 pm
Shaq Remembers His Former Teammate
During an hour-long pregame show to honor the life and legacy of Kobe Bryant, Shaq remembers his time spent with him.
In what ways did Shaq and Kobe go beyond their on-court achievements and create a close bond?
The world of basketball has been left stunned and heartbroken following the tragic death of Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant, who passed away in a helicopter crash on January 26th, 2020, in Calabasas, California. In a heartfelt tribute, Kobe’s former teammate and friend, Shaquille O’Neal, has shared his memories and feelings about the superstar basketball player.
Shaq and Kobe were known as one of the most dominant duos in basketball history, leading the Lakers to three consecutive NBA championships from 2000 to 2002. Despite their different personalities, the two players shared a deep bond that went beyond their on-court achievements.
In a statement released on his social media accounts, Shaq shared his devastation and paid tribute to Kobe’s legacy as a player and a person. “I’m sick right now,” Shaq wrote. “Kobe was so much more than an athlete, he was a family man. That was what we had most in common. We love our families. Whenever we got together I would hug his children like they were my own and he would embrace my kids like they were his.”
Shaq went on to describe Kobe’s work ethic both on and off the court, saying that his intensity and drive inspired him and everyone around him. “His way of achieving greatness was second to none, and he was willing to push himself harder than anyone else to get there,” Shaq said.
Despite the media’s portrayal of Shaq and Kobe as rivals, the two players had a close friendship and respect for each other. Shaq revealed that he and Kobe spoke regularly in the years following their retirement from the NBA, and that they were planning to work together on a project before his untimely death.
“Kobe was a brother to me, and I spent some of the happiest moments of my life with him,” Shaq said. “We were teammates, roommates, and never had an argument. The way we competed made us better. We both wanted to be great, and it made the other one better.”
As the basketball world mourns the loss of one of its greatest players, Shaq’s words serve as a reminder that Kobe’s legacy goes beyond his achievements on the court. He was a loving husband, father, and friend who inspired countless people with his passion and dedication to his craft. Shaq and Kobe’s bond will always be remembered as one of the most iconic partnerships in basketball history. Rest in peace, Kobe Bryant. Your impact on the game and the world will never be forgotten.
