"Miss you lil bro & miss you too Gigi": Shaquille O'Neal pays heart-melting tribute on Kobe Bryant death anniversary with throwback pictures

Shaquille O'Neal commemorated the death anniversary of his former LA Lakers teammate Kobe Bryant on Sunday. The Black Mamba and Big Diesel won three championships together during their tenure with the Lakers. While their relationship grew sour due to their differences, they eventually made peace with each other as they got older.

Unfortunately, Shaquille O'Neal and Kobe Bryant never got to enjoy their repaired relationship as the Black Mamba tragically passed away in a helicopter crash on January 26, 2020. Kobe and his daughter Gigi Bryant boarded the chopper under bad weather conditions, which resulted in their untimely demise.

It's been five years since the accident and the sports world still pays tribute to the Lakers legend. Shaq went on social media to upload throwback photos of him together with his former teammate Kobe. The caption of the Instagram post reads:

"Miss you lil bro & miss you too Gigi #missyall #neverfogotten"

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Scottie Pippen and the basketball world pay tribute to Kobe Bryant

NBA legend Scottie Pippen went on social media to pay his respects to the late great Kobe Bryant. Pippen tweeted a heartfelt message on X, formerly Twitter, as he expressed his relative feelings about being a father. He understands what it's like to be the dad of a daughter, especially since Scottie has three of them.

"Kobe, it’s been five years, and I still find myself looking back on your legacy as a father, a friend, and a fierce competitor," Pippen wrote. "Gigi was proof that greatness runs in the family, and the love you shared inspires all of us who are blessed to be girl dads.

"Your impact goes beyond basketball, and it always will. Rest in peace, my brother… you and Gigi are forever in our hearts."

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver also paid tribute to Kobe Bryant. Silver acknowledged the impact and legacy Kobe left in the world of basketball. He pointed out how his influence has inspired many young minds and talent who aspire to play basketball. Silver then gave a nod to Kobe's family, including Gigi Bryant.

"Kobe Bryant continues to serve as an inspiration to aspiring and current NBA and WNBA players, young athletes playing at all levels and those are motivated solely by his relentless pursuit of excellence," NBA Commissioner wrote

"Our thoughts today are with Vanessa and the Bryant family as we remember Kobe and their daughter, Gianna, with whom he shared a special bond around a profound love of the game of basketball."

Kobe will forever be known as one of the greatest players to suit up for the LA Lakers. Despite his untimely passing, fans of the sport will continue to call out his name as they take their shots on the hardwood.