After Years of Conflict, “Uncle Shaq” Reached Out to Vanessa After Kobe Bryant’s Death With a Tear-Jerking Promise

The long-running rivalry between Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal was well known in basketball. Shaq and Kobe were one of the strongest duos in NBA history when they played with the Los Angeles Lakers. However, outside of the court, there were many differences among the players, which came across in many ways.

Shaq openly spoke about Kobe’s game in the 1999-2000 season and discussed how his style of play isn’t appropriate for him and the team. Even though there were different reasons for their feud, while some came forward through their conversations, others remained with them throughout their NBA careers.

While playing together in the Lakers from 1996 to 2004, the pair were known for playing at their best and one of the greatest one-two punches in NBA history. The pair also won three consecutive NBA championships. With time, they were able to clear out all the differences they had and developed a better relationship.

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Bryant’s passing was devastating news to the basketball world in 2020. Hearing the news of one of the greats of the game passing away was difficult for the whole community. As we can only imagine how difficult it must be for Kobe’s family and friends.

018634.SP.1101.lakers.AR The Los Angeles Lakers Shaquille O’Neal(left) and Kobe Bryant prior to game against Utah at the Staples Center on 11/1/00. (Photo by Anacleto Rapping/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

During his eight years with Black Mamba, Shaq spent a lot of time playing alongside him. Following years of bitter conflict, “Uncle Shaq” reached out to Vanessa after Bryant’s death with a promise.

A promise by Shaquille O’Neal to take care of Kobe’s daughters

Afterward, Shaq talked about how hard it is for him to process everything that happened since it is all so surreal. He was asked by Kevin Frazier if he had spoken with Kobe’s widow, Vanessa Bryant, during an ET interview.

In response, Shaq said, “Hopefully, she knows that my family will open up our arms to her. Hopefully, her daughters will call me ‘Uncle Shaq’ like my kids called Kobe ‘Uncle Kobe.’ Even though he’s not with us, he will always be with us.”

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In addition, Shaq spoke about Kobe and pledged to take care of his children in every way when he spoke at Kobe’s memorial service at the Staples Center on February 24th, 2020. In his words: “Just know that we got your back, little brother. I will look after things down here. I’ll be sure to teach Natalia, Bianka, and baby Capri all your moves. And I promise I will not teach them my free throw techniques,” Shared Shaq.

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – JUNE 12: Kobe Bryant, Lindsey Hunter and Shaquille O’Neal of the Los Angeles Lakers celebrate following Game Four of the NBA Finals against the New Jersey Nets on June 12, 2002 at Continental Airlines Arena in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Sporting News via Getty Images via Getty Images)

Despite the feuds they had on and off the court, they considered themselves brothers to each other and always took care of each other’s families. Let us know what you think in the comments section below.

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