Gary Payton Gives Shocking Take on “Tragic” 2003-04 Lakers Campaign With Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal

The Los Angeles Lakers are undoubtedly one of the greatest NBA sides ever. The team has had stars like Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O’Neal, and LeBron James.

One of the greatest duos that played for the Lakers was during the late 90s and the early 2000s. The duo is obviously Shaq and Kobe. The two helped the Lakers win 3 NBA titles in a dominant run, which, unfortunately, did not last long.

Despite all their chemistry on the court, many have speculated the two do not have the best of relationships outside of it. Former Lakers player Gary Payton knows all about the Lakers and what happened in the Locker room.

Talking in an interview, Payton talked about the tragic 2003-04 campaign and what led to the downfall of the mighty Lakers.

Gary Payton on the downfall of the Lakers

Undoubtedly, the Lakers had one of the best rosters in the league during the 2003-04 season. Despite having stars like Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal, the Lakers only reached the finals but couldn’t bring the trophy home.

Although the Lakers were second and the Pistons were third in their respective conferences, it was the Detroit Pistons who eventually ended up winning the NBA Finals. NBA legend Gary Payton reveals what went on in the team locker room that affected their game on the court.

Talking in an interview, Payton said, “We knew that we could win. We knew we were going to be a super team. But things started going to the left. The first things were when Kobe got in trouble, that was one of our first signs of it was going to be tragic.”

He further added, ” Shaq got into it with Dr. Buss about the contract. He wanted to get a contract and Dr. Buss didn’t want him to give him a new contract. So they started feuding with each other, words start going back and forth. Then it was like, Shaq didn’t wanna play.”

Furthermore, many speculated Kobe and Shaq to not be on the best of terms. Initially, there were reports of Shaq being jealous of Kobe Bryant and his insane jersey sales.

READ MORE: Kobe Bryant Once Gave a Crucial Financial Advice to a 13 Year Old Who Left Him Stumped With His Questions

The Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal feud

While nothing has been explicitly talked about by any of the two superstars, the signs were evident for the fans and the media. During the 2003-04 season, the Lakers signed the likes of Gary Payton and Karl Malone.

Kobe Bryant had reportedly warned the Lakers coach that he wouldn’t hesitate to go out against Shaq if he starts a press war.

The feud reached the boiling point during a training camp the same season. Shaquille O’Neal remarked “the full team is here” despite the absence of Kobe Bryant. Ultimately, Shaq joined the Miami Heat while Bryant continued with the Lakers till his retirement in 2016.

WATCH THIS STORY: Ben Simmons’ Blockbuster Nets Debut, Stephen Curry vs Damian Lillard and Other Moments to Look Out for After NBA All-Star Game

Who is your favorite between Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant? Let us know in the comments below.