Perhaps the most dynamic duo in NBA history, Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal have had more than their fair share of ups and downs over the years. The two played eight years together for the Los Angeles Lakers during the late 1990’s through the early 2000’s and earned two championships, but the sailing was not always smooth.
If there were any issues still left between the two All-Time greats, Bryant and O’Neal recently had the opportunity to hash out all their differences. TNT hosted a sit-down where the once dominant duo was able to speak out on a multitude of issues. One of the main things they touched on was the rivalry the two had between themselves when they were on the same team and also later on when they split.
"I think I can remember the first time we had our first fight…" – @kobebryant #PlayersOnly pic.twitter.com/IOS6FTjREt
— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) February 18, 2018
.@kobebryant and @SHAQ talk details about their eventual break up from the @Lakers. #PlayersOnly pic.twitter.com/J8Wqygzx0V
— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) February 18, 2018
However, along with those moments came great triump and success. The two dominated the NBA for years, and Bryant and O’Neal also discussed just what it was that made them so dangerous as a duo.
"Where did you get your killer instinct from?"@kobebryant describes how isolation has fueled his drive to be great. pic.twitter.com/ufUzib1E20
— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) February 18, 2018
"He wound up becoming a big brother to me." @kobebryant and @SHAQ talk MJ and how he shaped Bryant's career. #PlayersOnly pic.twitter.com/8F5th4skJS
— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) February 18, 2018
It’s still up for debate as to whether Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal will go down as the most dominant 1-2 punch in NBA history but their legacies in Laker lore are cemented forever.
Even through the controversy and extra drama, the fact that the two were able to hold their partnership sturdy enough to be crowned champions three consecutive seasons is extremely commendable and an act rarely accomplished.
