The bond between Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant was indeed an eye-pleasing watch for every basketball fan. As months pass by, Shaq has never failed to come up with interesting stories about the Black Mamba. Moreover, the 5x NBA champion had a beautiful bond with Shaq’s kids as well. This has often led the O’Neal youngsters to show immense love for their “Unc” on every special occasion. That was the case again on the Los Angeles Lakers legend’s 45th birthday.

Sharing some iconic pictures of the NBA legend, Shaq’s “babies” brought out their emotional side on Instagram to celebrate Bryant’s “heavenly” birthday. In the meantime, let us also take a look into a beautiful moment between Shaq’s children and the NBA icon. 

Shaquille O’Neal and his children celebrate Kobe Bryant’s 45th birthday 

Kobe Bean Bryant’s birthdays ever since his passing have been an emotional rollercoaster for many. A few among them are Shaquille O’Neal’s daughter and two sons. The three ballers, just like their father, have a special bond with Bryant, which Shaq spoke about a few years ago. 

Celebrating Bryant’s 45th birthday, 17-year-old Me’arah O’Neal shared the Black Mamba‘s iconic jersey-biting picture and added, “Love you Unc… happy heavenly birthday”. 

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Shaq’s youngest son, Shaqir O’Neal, shared a picture of him alongside the LA legend. The 20-year-old also shared a picture of Bryant’s famous behind-the-back pass to a young Shaq. 23-year-old Shareef also shared a picture of Bryant on his Instagram along with a few heart emojis. They were heartbroken after Bryant’s passing in 2020 and Shaqir even shared how he was his idol.

All three of them have something in common. While they admire their dad, their love for the Black Mamba is always more. Interestingly, Shaq once revealed in an interview his children liked Bryant more as a player than their dad.

Shaquille O’Neal revealed how Kobe Bryant respected his “babies”

The 2000 NBA MVP also added that Kevin Durant and Bryant came first before him. This is one of the main reasons why Bryant always showed love to Shaq’s kids. 

The LA giant shared, “Just him taking the time to talk to my kids…even though I was a great player, I’m not my kids’ favorite player. For Kobe to take the time to text my babies, check upon them. It was special.” 

Read more: Mourning the Death of 23YO Basketball Star, Shaquille O’Neal’s 20YO Son Pays Silent Tribute on Social Media

Now you know why Bryant has a special place in the O’Neal family. What are your thoughts on the above story? Share in the comments below.