One of the most interesting relationships in NBA history belongs to Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal. Arguably the most talented duo the NBA has ever seen, Kobe and Shaq capitalized off their sheer ability and chemistry, securing three consecutive league titles in 2000, 2001 and 2002.
However even with three championships to their name as a duo, Kobe and Shaq never truly reached their full potential. Instead, O’Neal would join the Miami Heat two seasons after their final ring together. Now with their careers well in the rearview, Kobe discussed his relationship with O’Neal at the PHP Agency Convention in Las Vegas. Kobe touched on a number of topics but most notable was what he had to say about his former teammate and their immense potential together. Bryant said if Shaq had stayed in shape and had the same work ethic that he himself had, they would currently have 12 championship rings. Video courtesy of Valuentainment:
While Kobe Bryant makes an interesting argument, 12 rings seems a bit far-fetched to say the least. The most rings we’ve seen a single player win was Boston Celtics legend Bill Russell who secured 11 championships in 13 seasons.
While Kobe and Shaq obviously couldn’t have won twelve championships, there’s no doubt their ceiling was much higher than what they ultimately reached. A three-peat is still an incredibly impressive feat, but with the most dominant player ever and one of the most talented scorers in NBA history, they could’ve certainly found a way to stick together for longer than eight seasons.
As many know, Kobe and Shaq were also very different personalities. Bryant was maniacally obsessed with the game and getting better while O’Neal was more laid back. It’s interesting to imagine though just how good the two could’ve been if they were consistently on the same page.
While some would take Bryant’s latest comments as a dig to his friend and former teammate, Kobe made sure to clear the air. Bryant took to Twitter to defend O’Neal and reiterated his belief that Shaq is the most dominant player to ever play basketball.
Don’t get it confused. He was still the #MDE
— Kobe Bryant (@kobebryant) August 28, 2019
