The best quality about Kobe Bryant? You want me to be honest? I don't know. I'll tell you why. I open my arms to everybody. But he never stepped forward for the embrace. So I never really got to know him. I don't know anything about him, and it's kinda sad.

I would love an extension, who wouldn't? If they offer me a $35 million-a-year extension, I'll sign it right now. I won't even read the contract. I'm just here to take care of business and I know can help give the city what it's looking for.

I'm a season kind of guy - not the preseason but the regular season.

I've been the type of person [and] the type of athlete, I don't like to be given anything. I like to earn.

Kids can still call me Shaq, but adults should call me Dr. O'Neal.

He can play. He can shoot. He can dribble. He can pass. He's a great player. Period. No question about it. And if anyone thinks Dirk is not a great player, I'll punch them in their face.

I started out as a football player. I liked to inflict pain. In basketball, it was the same thing.