Laker Diary

Two world championships, and a guy still can't fit into his seat on the plane or the elevators at New York's plaza Hotel. Those are among the things SI photographer Walter Iooss Jr. learned when he went behind the scenes with the Los Angeles Lakers at home and on the road, where it's just another fat per diem check

The Garden; 2/24

Shaq heads for opening tip against the Knicks.

Seattle; 2/14 Kobe whooped all the way to the showers after bunging the Shaq-less Lakers back from 10 down for the win.

El Segundo: practice facility parking lot

...Front seat access: Kobe at the wheel of his Ferrari.

Staples Center; March 3rd

Raising the roof with their standard pregame chant/boogie

1/26 Charter LAX to Philly

Shaq
Sac Ked out on his usual seats as he says so often, "I've got to handle my bizness."