"I'll take the criticism" - Shaquille O'Neal picks Michael Jordan over Kobe Bryant

Michael Jordan, a legend of the NBA, graced the courts primarily with the Chicago Bulls, leading them to six NBA championships in the 1990s. 

Kobe Bryant, another iconic figure in basketball history, spent his entire illustrious career with the Los Angeles Lakers. 

Former NBA player and basketball legend Shaquille O'Neal appeared on the "Off the Record" podcast and gave a noteworthy response to an interesting question from the host.

It all started when Bailey Jackson, the podcast host, asked if O'Neal could replace any of his former teammates with any other player in NBA history at the same position, who would it be and why. O'Neal replied, via Sportal.

"I know I might get criticized for this, but I would choose Michael over Kobe," he stated. "I'm trying to win championships. It's about the ring culture. I would love to play with Mike and learn from him."

However, he first made sure to clarify his feelings for the late Kobe Bryant, with whom he won three NBA titles with the Lakers.

"Kobe was vital to my three championships," stated O'Neal.