Derek Fisher Reveals Origins of Kobe-Shaq Feud

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nick Wright | Last updated Jan 14, 2025 11:35 AM ET

As CNN prepares to release an original series exploring Kobe Bryant's legacy, former teammate Derek Fisher offered insights into the pivotal period following the Los Angeles Lakers' first championship with the Kobe-Shaq duo, nearly 25 years ago.

Bryant, alongside Shaquille O'Neal, formed what many consider the most formidable duo in both NBA and Lakers history. However, their partnership began showing strain after their first title in 2000. Speaking on Podcast P with Paul George, Fisher revealed that Bryant struggled with his secondary role on the team.

"We won the first title in 2000, and I think that second year... that's when it really shifted," Fisher explained. "Kobe really felt like he was being asked to sacrifice too much."

Fisher explained that Bryant's ambition to become one of basketball's greatest players conflicted with being the team's second option, as most players in "GOAT conversations" were their team's primary stars.

Fisher described Bryant's frustration with the disparity between his dedication and O'Neal's differing approach:

"I'm willing to wake up at four in the morning, no sleep, train hard, play in every game, play through injuries, do everything to become one of the greatest players of all time. Why am I being asked to do less and be less when my teammate that is capable of just as much or more greatness isn't maybe investing that much time?"

The tension between Shaq and Kobe eventually led to O'Neal being traded to the Miami Heat, while Bryant remained in Los Angeles. Although Bryant's intensity could alienate his teammates, Bryant went on to lead the Lakers to two additional championships. The dissolution of the Bryant-O'Neal partnership remains one of basketball's great "what-if" scenarios, leaving fans to speculate about potential additional titles they could have had if they stayed together.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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