Kid Kobe--the next Air? What about Shaq?

The "Basketball for Thought" is a commentary by Kris Gardner.

January 1998

The national media has been trying to build up or discover "the next Michael Jordan" for the last 5 or so years. First, it was Harold "Baby Jordan" Miner; next, Grant Hill; then Penny Hardaway, Jerry Stackhouse who played at the University of North Carolina was an obvious choice; now, the media seems convinced they have found him. Who is he? The Lakers' Kobe Bryant. Kobe, 19, may become the next Jordan -- I really don't care; however, if he does, what is going to happen to Shaq?

Think about it. Shaquille O'Neal deserted the Orlando Magic to sign with the Lakers for about $115M to enhance his acting / rapping career and win championships. Can Shaq handle being second banana to Kobe Bryant? I really doubt it.

San Antonio's David Robinson surpassed Shaq in the NBA's popularity contest, oops, All - Star voting for the Western Conference. Clearly, David has produced superior stats so far because Shaq has missed games due to injuries. However, Chicago's Scottie Pippen didn't play his first game until Jan. 10th and he is third in voting in the Eastern Conference!

Could it be the public has grown tired of the huge center's brick laying at the foul line; his horrible movies; his tennis shoes; or his no championship rings? Perhaps.

Shaq is the most dominant low post scorer in the league; however, no one takes him seriously because of his numerous misadventures at the free throw line. Because of his poor foul shooting, people still doubt whether he can lead the Lakers to an NBA title. Without a title, right or wrong, his mega status will suffer.

Can Shaq handle that? Sure he'll still make tons of money; but, he has stated he wants to have championship rings on his fingers; not just get paid.

Well, big fella, the media has tabbed your teammate as the "Air apparent". Most likely, Kobe will re - sign w/ LA for a hundred million dollars plus. Is LA big enough for both of you? Shaq? You decide.