Los Angeles Lakers legend Shaquille O'Neal still isn't over the tragic death of Kobe Bryant.
However, The Diesel is appreciative of all the great memories he and Kobe created together. Shaq and Kobe won three straight titles together on the Lakers.
During an interview with Jenna Lemoncelli of Hollywood Life, O'Neal reflected on his friendship with Bryant.
“I miss young fella, that’s what I used to call him. But, those memories will always be there, our names will always be attached to one another.
“Kobe was stolen from us too early.”
In the same interview with Lemoncelli, O'Neal also talked about how famous NBA photographer Andy Bernstein brightened his day by sharing some photos of him and Kobe at a Lakers championship parade.
O'Neal and Bryant led the Lakers to titles over the Philadelphia 76ers, Indiana Pacers and New Jersey Nets.
“I actually woke up that morning [the anniversary, June 19, 2020] and the great Andy Bernstein, who took a couple pictures of us at the parade [following the Lakers 2000 championship], sent me the photos.
“Those are good memories.”
Bryant is the greatest player in Lakers franchise history, but O'Neal isn't too far behind.
Kobe finished his Lakers career with averages of 25.0 points, 5.2 rebounds and 4.7 assists, while Shaq put up 27.0 points and 11.8 boards per game with Los Angeles.
There will never be another duo like Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal. Not on the Lakers and not in the NBA period.
Los Angeles retired Kobe's No. 8 and No. 24 jersey last season. Shaq's No. 34 jersey is also hanging in the rafters at Staples Center.
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