Shaq Reveals 'FBI' Story After Hazing Kobe Bryant

Shaquille O'Neal and the late Kobe Bryant formed one of the most iconic and complex partnerships in NBA history during their time with the Los Angeles Lakers.

Their relationship, characterized by both immense success and deep-seated conflict, remains a compelling narrative until today.

While they rekindled their friendship in the latter stages of their careers, it's no secret that Shaq and Kobe got into each other's skin often. They were two alphas looking to take control of the Lakers , arguably the most popular team in the NBA.

Shaq said he even tried to haze Kobe during his rookie year, but the Lakers' higher-ups warned against it.

"I hazed Kobe one time, and it's like the FBI came to my room the next morning," Shaq said on "The Big Podcast."

"(They were) like, 'He's off limits.' I said, 'What you mean he's off limits?' They were like, 'Bro, he's off limits.'"

Shaq, who won three straight titles with Kobe, was referring to Lakers bosses Jerry West, Mitch Kupchak and Magic Johnson. He said they all sternly reminded him against hazing his 18-year-old teammate, who was West's precious find.

Shaq eventually relented, noting that he drew from his personal experience when he was a rookie with the Orlando Magic.

"The only reason why I didn't mess with him (Kobe) was because when I got to Orlando, Scott Skiles told me, 'Lift these bags,'" the former MVP said. "I said, 'I don't do that, bro.'"

Despite their conflicts, Shaq and Kobe later expressed mutual respect for each other and acknowledged that their rivalry pushed them to greater heights.

After Kobe's tragic death in 2020 , Shaq openly mourned his former teammate, emphasizing the brotherhood they shared despite their differences.

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