Shaq and Kobe are nothing alike.
Shaq comes from a split family, his biological father never really in the picture. He was raised by his mom and step-dad, who was in the military. He was taught respect and discipline.
Kobe is the son of a former NBA player, spoiled all his life, best schools, etc. He's a prima donna, an adulterer, and likely a rapist.
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Also - you act like Shaq called the network to get time. I didn't see it, but I would assume a microphone was shoved in his face after the playoff game and he was asked to comment on the death of Mikan. You're taking things out of context. If there wasn't a game that night, he might have contacted the family privately, but if he's asked on the spot about it, he's going to make the offer right then and there, so the family knows that's one less thing to be concerned with.
Even as a diehard Lakers' fan, I wasn't always a diehard fan of Shaq on the court, but his off the court behavior has always been pretty admirable. He's a good guy. A family guy. A charitable guy who does a lot when there is no publicity, unlike many athletes.