Shaquille O’Neal paid tribute to his late friend and teammate Kobe Bryant on his 47th birthday by restoring and gifting the Bryant family’s cherished 1996 Toyota Land Cruiser, a gesture symbolizing their lasting bond beyond the game.
Highlights
- Kobe remembered: The NBA celebrated Kobe Bryant’s 47th birthday on August 23.
- Shaq’s gesture: Gifted Bryant’s mother their restored 1996 Toyota Land Cruiser.
- Collaboration: Restoration was done with Effortless Motors.
- Legacy bond: Though rivals at first, Shaq and Kobe’s bond stood the test of time.
On August 23, the basketball world remembered the late Kobe Bryant on what would have been his 47th birthday. Among the many heartfelt tributes, Shaquille O’Neal’s stood out for its thoughtfulness and depth of sentiment.
Shaquille O’Neal paid tribute to his former LA Lakers teammate by presenting Kobe Bryant’s mother with a restored 1996 Toyota Land Cruiser. Partnering with Effortless Motors, he brought the cherished family car back to life, now valued at around $49,000.
O’Neal and Bryant’s relationship began in the late 1990s when they formed a dominant duo with the Lakers, winning three consecutive NBA titles together. Though their early years were marked by pride-fueled rivalry, the two buried past differences and built a lasting friendship that continued well beyond their playing careers.
Even after Bryant’s tragic passing in 2020, O’Neal has remained committed to honoring his legacy and supporting his family. This heartfelt gesture reflects the enduring brotherhood between two of basketball’s greatest icons
