6 Months Before Slapping Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O’Neal Uttered Something That Would Offend Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen

In the world of NBA rivalries and partnerships, few stories are as fascinating as the saga between Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant. From a heated altercation during a pick-up game to Shaq’s recent Instagram post, their relationship took quite some turns. While both had tremendous respect for each other, they were also often at one another’s throats.

Let’s dig into the roller coaster ride of one of the most dominant and unique partnerships in NBA history.

Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant: The love-hate relationship

Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal were a former explosive duo for the Los Angeles Lakers. However, on Shaq’s recent Instagram story, we witness a new layer to their narrative. The post, featuring an NBA on TNT tagline, “We Are The Most Controversial, Most Enigmatic, Most Dominant One-Two Punch Ever Created. Never To Be Duplicated Again“, reflects Shaq’s perspective on his playing days with Kobe.

But it’s a specific clip within the post that captures the spotlight—a moment of friendly banter with a dash of provocation. It took place in 2002, after the duo had already won their three-peat together.

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In the clip, Kobe dons a Chicago Bulls jersey, prompting Shaq to jest, “Why don’t you take that jersey off and put your own jersey on Playa?” Kobe’s response, “About damn time,” speaks volumes.

This playful exchange resonates beyond the surface, aimed squarely at Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen, the iconic Chicago Bulls duo. It was swift sarcasm to make a point that we’re here now and about to take you down.

The slap heard around the NBA

However, there is also the incident when Shaq’s hand met Kobe Bryant‘s face during a pick-up game. The backdrop was the 2003 lockout, a period when players sought refuge in pick-up games to stay sharp.

Shaquille O’Neal and Bryant, both Lakers but on opposing teams that day, clashed in a brawl sparked by a disagreement over foul calls.

The heated argument led to the infamous slap. The rivalry reached a point that after leaving the Lakers, Shaq said he wanted to win the ring before Kobe. However, years after all the dust settled, both icons discussed and even joked about the incident.

However, one thing becomes clear—their journey was far from linear. From a a playful dig to a fiery altercation, all in 6 months.

Their partnership was as nuanced as the game they dominated. The NBA has seen its fair share of alliances and feuds, but none can hold a candle to Kobe and Shaq.