“I just try to make her smile”- NBA icon Shaquille ’O’Neal reveals checking up on his former teammate Kobe Bryant’s mother and sisters

The differences between NBA legends Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal were clearly reflected during games. Despite having completely contrasting basketball philosophies and ego issues, both Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant have helped the Los Angeles Lakers claim three NBA championships. During an exclusive interview with People, Shaquille O’Neal revealed being in touch with his former teammate Kobe Bryant’s mother, Pamela, and sisters Sharia and Shaya. Unapologetically upfront, these two words perfectly describe NBA icon Shaquille O’Neal. The Lakers alum has been known for his uncensored takes and short temper ever since his NBA days, but the world has no idea about his friendly and softer side. During an exclusive interview with the reputed media outlet People, Shaquille O’Neal revealed being in touch with Kobe Bryant’s mother and sisters."I always check in on Kobe's mom. I check in on his mom once a month to make sure she's okay. They live in Vegas. I'm in Vegas. I'm close with his sisters. I just call to check on them.”O’Neal revealed that even Kobe Bryant used to check in on his parents before his tragic death in January 2020. As a good friend, the popular podcaster believes he should check on his friend’s parents when he is no longer there. He further elaborated,"Their mom has been through a lot in a couple of years, and that takes a toll, and sometimes you just need somebody to just call to check on you. I kind of know what it feels like with the passing of her son, but I don't know what it feels like to lose a son and a husband, so I'm sure she has a lot of pain that she's dealing with."Kobe Bryant’s father passed away in July 2024, leaving his mother, Pamela Bryant, totally empty. Shaquille O’Neal reflected on Pamela Bryant’s life after losing her son and husband within a gap of almost four years. O’Neal and Bryant represented the Los Angeles Lakers from 1996 to 2004Also Read: “I didn't feel high’- NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal reveals hiding his addiction to pain medication from family