Shaquille O'Neal and Kobe Bryant have had their differences. One of the greatest NBA duos of all-time in their peak, their 2003-04 feud ultimately led to their split.
So it was nice to see Shaq in the stands at the Staples Center, taking in Bryant's last game as a Laker. During a Bryant tribute video featuring opponents and former teammates, O'Neal made the first appearance.
Shaq didn't just come to watch. He gave Kobe a little challenge before the game, and Kobe beat it.
Just spoke to Shaq - he said "I challenged him to get 50 and the mother****er got 60"
— Rachel Nichols (@Rachel__Nichols) April 14, 2016
Bryant scored 60 points on 22-for-50 shooting (6-for-21 from three, 10-for-12 from the free throw line) in a 101-96 Lakers win. He previous high this season was a 38-point outing versus the Timberwolves on Feb. 2. Of course, Bryant's career-high is his 81-point performance against the Raptors on Jan. 22, 2006.
Shaq and Kobe always made each other better. On Kobe's last night, we got that one more time.
The good times! Best 1-2 punch of all time! Thanks for the memories Kobe #34 #24 #8 #mamba #diesel
Bibb pic.twitter.com/qQzLofdhC9— SHAQ (@SHAQ) April 14, 2016
UPDATE (3:50 p.m. ET): A video has emerged of Shaq challenging Kobe to 50 points on TNT a few weeks ago.
