In This Story
Chicago Bulls
Los Angeles Lakers
Aug 23, 2025 3:05 PM EDT
The Los Angeles Lakers are one of the biggest brands in the world and a key reason for it is their historic run in the late 1990s and early 2000s. They made four NBA Finals appearances in a five-year span and now own the honor of being the last team to win three straight championships.
Those title teams had some great role players, but none of them could hold a candle to Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal. Considered one of the best duos in league history, the historic combination terrorized opponents on a nightly basis and likely could have continued their dominance for years if the two hadn’t fallen out.
Bryant, who was recognized as a uniquely hard worker, was annoyed with O’Neal’s complacency and unwillingness to take care of his body, as well as being drowned out by his massive shadow. O’Neal has since said on multiple occasions that his pride got in the way and drove a wedge between he and Bryant, expressing his regret over the situation.
Today, on the late star’s birthday, O’Neal decided to set the record straight when it comes to the greatest of all time debate that is regularly discussed by the media. The 15-time All-Star said that it frustrates him to hear people leave Bryant out of the GOAT debate.
Oops! We’re unable to load this content right now.
View directly on 𝕏
O’Neal thinks his former teammate is unfairly passed up in the debates, but that may be his own doing. Bryant notoriously played second fiddle to the man known as ‘Shaq’ in their three championship runs, which waters down those championships while discussing his legacy.
The Hall of Fame guard also only won a singular MVP during his career compared to Lakers forward LeBron James and Chicago Bulls legend Michael Jordan, who O’Neal also mentioned in the video. Everything matters in all-time debates: accolades, stats, impact, and even context.
So, it’s not surprising that some people don’t view Bryant in the same light as James and Jordan. Many people consider Bryant to be a top 10 player in NBA history, but O’Neal believes his late friend is much more than that.
About the Author
Paul White