Kobe Bryant ‘belongs in GOAT convo’ despite average athleticism compared to Michael Jordan and LeBron James
The late Kobe Bryant was the main talking point regarding the GOAT debate on an episode of the Gil's Arena Show.
LeBron James, Kobe Byrant and Michael Jordan
The late Kobe Bryant was one of the best players in the NBA back in his time after the Michael Jordan era and before the LeBron James era. However, people often consider the GOAT battle in the sport to be between the likes of the former Chicago Bulls legend, Jordan, and current Los Angeles Lakers star man, James. Notably, another former player, Gilbert Arenas had a different view regarding the GOAT debate.
Interestingly, Arenas claimed on his podcast, the Gil’s Arena Show that Bryant ‘belongs in the GOAT convo’ along with James and Jordan despite not being that athletic compared to others. Bryant accomplished many incredible things over his 20-year career, but it is his unwavering work ethic that stands out most strongly when thinking about the former Lakers legend.
What makes Kobe [Bryant] special? We don't go by the accolades. We go by how the person played, what was his attributes...He didn't have the big hands. He wasn't quick, he wasn't fast, 38" vertical what he did with that body, it's like you took an S 500 and he was pushing it like a Bugatti. That's what we look at. We look at the normal person fighting gods.Gilbert Arenas on the Gil’s Arena Show
In addition, Bryant wasn’t as naturally gifted as Jordan or his former teammate Shaquille O’Neal, who were walking beasts owing to their huge frames. However, Bryant found a way to flourish with what he was given, and his drive to outperform everyone set the groundwork for a remarkable career. Even today, the NBA community around the world pays their respect and admiration to the late Lakers legend.
NBA insider Shams Charania gave an insight into Kobe Bryant and how he impacted the sport
Kobe Bryant is considered one of the finest players in NBA history. He was noted for his exceptional abilities and for lifting the squad on his back in critical times. NBA insider Shams Charania recently commented on Bryant’s influence on his life and the sport of basketball.
Charania noted that watching Bryant play and win five NBA titles with the Los Angeles Lakers significantly impacted him. He considered the Mamba Mentality quite powerful and used it in his everyday activities. He claimed that Bryant’s constant striving to improve himself benefited Charania greatly. This speaks volumes regarding Bryant’s impact on one’s life.
In addition, Bryant’s mentality was second to none. He not only improved himself daily but also improved his teammates on and off the court. To this day, he is an inspiration to many young NBA players and present NBA stars. Bryant’s legacy will always remain untouched, especially for the moments he provided to his fans during his glorious basketball career.
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Kartik Mudaliar
(844 Articles Published)