LeBron James dominated the NBA from the outset of his career with the Cleveland Cavaliers. He became one of the league’s most popular players and a celebrity almost quickly. Because of his rapid growth, Shaquille O’Neal utilized him as a motivational tool with Kobe Bryant.
O’Neal recently discussed how he would encourage Bryant. He would purposefully irritate him in order to motivate him to improve his game. LeBron’s name was mentioned in an attempt to enrage Bryant.
O’Neal explained how he utilized James to push Kobe: “I used to say stuff to irritate him on purpose because I knew that’s when he’d play his best. I’d say stuff like, ‘You’re not Michael Jordan,’ or, ‘They got this kid LeBron [James] in Cleveland who’s better than you.'”
Bryant always aspired to be the best. He had incredible drive and was never content with himself. That made him a fantastic player and one of the league’s fiercest competitors. James and Bryant were friends, but there was no friendship on the court.
Both players pursued each other, doing everything in their ability to gain a competitive advantage. Clearly, O’Neal’s techniques for motivating Bryant worked. When Kobe became upset, opposition teams became afraid. He would generally make them pay.
Now, James is continuing on Bryant’s legacy with the Los Angeles Lakers. He, along with Kobe, is regarded as one of the best players in team history.
While some Cavaliers fans may still harbor bitterness for LeBron’s departure twice, most secretly wish him well. James may no longer be in Cleveland, but he will always be a part of the Cavaliers club.
