Rudy Garcidueñas of the Los Angeles Lakers

Rudy Garcidueñas has been part of more Los Angeles Lakers championships than Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal combined. For over 20 years, Garcidueñas has been the Lakers' equipment manager, sharing a spot on the bench with a who's who of coaches and players, including Pat Riley, Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Phil Jackson, and of course, Kobe and Shaq.

We got a hold of the beloved Garcidueñas and asked him about his favorite players, championship memories and… meditation.

Of all the NBA championships you've experienced, which one stands out the most?

It's difficult to say which one stands out the most. Each team had its own unique blend of players. The back to back championships in '80s were special as well as the championships with Shaq & Kobe.

What are the most rewarding and stressful parts of your job?

The most rewarding part is being able to get to know so many different players and people throughout the years. The travel can be fun and stressful as well. It's fun at the beginning of the year and by the end of the season you are tired of jumping on planes and buses.

Do you speak Spanish with Pau Gasol?

Yes. I try to as much as I can but he speaks much better than I do.

Top row: Rudy Garcidueñas, trainer Gary Vitti, Derek Fisher. Bottom row: Luke Walton, Josh Powell, DJ Mbenga.

Who's the biggest joker on the team?

We have a few guys who enjoy pranks & laughing it up. Luke [Walton] & Jordan [Farmar] can be a devious tag team. Shannon [Brown] & Adam [Morrison] seemed to fit right in.

Does Phil Jackson make you meditate?

No, he doesn't require I meditate. Phil did more of that with the teams when he first came here. Not so much now.

Who are your favorite Lakers of all-time and why?

It's hard to pick just a few. Everyone who has put on a Lakers uniform as long as I've been around has been a joy to know. From all the greats like Magic, Kareem, Kobe & Shaq to countless other guys who have played with us they were all part of special experiences.

Did Shaquille O'Neal really buy you a car?

Yes, Shaq helped out with a vehicle when he first got to the team. I was using my own car for hauling everything around and he didn't think I should be doing that so he helped out with a truck.