Lakers Fans Get Thanks From Shaq

The big guy had a big-hearted message for Los Angeles Lakers fans.

Shaquille O'Neal took out a full-page advertisement in the Los Angeles Times on Sunday to thank fans for their support during his eight years with the Lakers, when he helped the team win three NBA championships.

The 7-foot-1, 340-pound O'Neal was traded last week to the Miami Heat.

"I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for your incredible support over the last eight years," O'Neal said in the ad, which included a picture of him smiling and gripping a basketball in one hand. "I am moving on to the next chapter in my career, but I will never forget the support that you gave me."

The Lakers are rebuilding their team around superstar guard Kobe Bryant. Rudy Tomjanovich has replaced Phil Jackson as coach, and former Laker Vlade Divac, who was traded in 1996, will return to replace O'Neal at center.

-- From News Services