Everyone needs a friend like Shaquille O'Neal .

Shaq recently revealed that he still keeps up with his former teammate and friend, Kobe Bryant , five years after his death. Shaq and Kobe played on the Lakers for eight seasons — 1996 to 2004 — and won three NBA championships together.

“I always check in on Kobe's mom. I check in on his mom once a month, make sure she's okay,” he told PEOPLE.

In addition to phone calls, he also sends Kobe's mom flowers.

“I just try to make her smile. I just try to do whatever I can, because I know it's tough,” he added.

“Their mom has been through a lot in a couple of years, and that takes a toll, and sometimes you just need somebody to just call to check on you,” Shaq continued. “I kind of know what it feels like with the passing of her son, but

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