The Repeat Begins: Shaq and the Lakers’ First Dynasty Step

After the 2000 title, the Lakers did not stop. In 2000-01 Phil Jackson’s triangle matured; Shaq was unguardable inside and Kobe Bryant became an All-Star. The playoffs rolled, losing once en route to the Finals.

Against the 76ers, LA repeated 4-1; Shaq’s second FMVP announced the OK duo as the league’s scariest pair. Kobe, still sidekick, already showed takeovers in key games.

With the repeat, the Lakers eyed a three-peat — the true dynasty threshold. The 2001 win was the second cornerstone. Shaq’s two-year reign sealed his status as the era’s top center.

Repeats are never easy, but once started they build inertia. The Lakers’ 2001 was the year inertia formed.

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