Shaquille O’Neal reveals promise to Dwyane Wade in chase to beat Kobe Bryant’s achievements
NBA legend Shaquille O'Neal talks about his time with the Miami Heat and his goal to win a championship before Kobe Bryant.
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Shaquille O'Neal talks about Kobe Bryant and Dwyane Wade (image via NBA)
Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant won three consecutive championships together with the Los Angeles Lakers, but their constant disagreements eventually led to a split. O’Neal was traded to the Miami Heat, where he went on to win his fourth championship.
In a recent appearance on The OGs Podcast, Shaquille O’Neal shared stories from his past, including his drive to outdo Kobe Bryant after their separation. He also talked about his promise to Dwyane Wade, vowing to help him win a championship without needing to be the team’s leader.
O’Neal opened up about the close bond and strong on-court chemistry he shared with Wade, especially during the NBA Finals. He encouraged Wade to ignore past negativity and focus on winning. Shaq’s commitment was so strong that he even took a pay cut to help bring a championship to Miami.
When I came to Miami, I said look you heard a lot of sh** about me that ain't going to happen with me again, this ain't going to happen with me and you (Dwyane Wade).Shaquille O’Neal via The OGs podcast
After leaving the Lakers, Shaquille O’Neal admitted that he became a “certified ring chaser,” with his main goal being to win another championship before Kobe Bryant to gain the upper hand in their rivalry. While Shaq remained a dominant force with the Miami Heat, the Dallas Mavericks were able to contain him in the 2006 NBA Finals. It was Dwyane Wade who stepped up with stellar performances throughout the series, ultimately leading the Heat to their championship victory.
Shaq ultimately wrapped up his career with four championships, solidifying his position in NBA history as one of the best centers. Despite their messy break up, many still consider O’Neal and Bryant one of the best duos of this century.
Kobe Bryant eventually went on to win two more championships after Shaquille O’Neal’s departure from the Lakers
In the early 2000s, the Lakers were considered one of the best teams in the NBA, led by a dominant Shaquille O’Neal and a young Kobe Bryant. With their combined talent, the Lakers had a relatively smooth path to multiple championships. However, after O’Neal’s departure, the team struggled and slipped into mediocrity.
Despite this, Kobe Bryant, in his prime, emerged as the league’s most lethal scorer. Unfortunately, the Lakers’ supporting cast was weak, leaving Bryant to carry the team almost single-handedly throughout the season.
But once the team added Paul Gasol, Bryant’s path to the championship became a bit easier. In 2009 and 2010, the Lakers were in the NBA finals and managed to win the NBA championship.
Eventually Bryant added two more championships in his resume. Even in the press conference after the finals, Bryant hilariously mocked O’Neal by stating he one above O’Neal in championship count. Eventually both Bryant and O’Neal sorted their beef and even had a 1-on-1 interview with each other through ESPN.
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Saiel Lad
(122 Articles Published)