Various NBA superstars like Michael Jordan, Shaquille O’Neal, Allen Iverson among others reveal why they would select Kobe Bryant over LeBron James.
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There have been many all-time greats who have suited up for the purple and gold. However, there are two legends who have absolutely revolutionised how the game of basketball is played –Kobe Bryant and LeBron James.
These two superstars have had a massive impact on modern basketball. With their impressive game style, dedication, love for the game and competitive spirit, they prove to everyone why have been they compared to Michael Jordan in the GOAT debate.
Between the two of these legends, they have quite the resume. While King James (still active) is a 17-time All-Star, 17-time All-NBA, 4-time MVP, 4-time NBA champ, 4-time Finals MVP. Whereas the Mamba has 18 All-Star appearances, 15 All-NBA selections, an MVP, 5 NBA championships, 2 Final MVPs under his belt. Oh, and both of them have a combined 69,010 points. Talking about the game’s greatest, these two generational type players are absolutely on the pinnacle of the game.
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Michael Jordan, Shaquille O’Neal, Kevin Durant, Allen Iverson and other legends explain why they choose Kobe Bryant over LeBron James
There are several aspects of the game that Kobe is better than LeBron at, like his crazy passion to win, dedicated work ethic, and unique yet effective approach to the game. Similarly, there are numerous aspects of the game that Bron is better than Kobe at, like his durability, versatility, dominance among many others.
While several basketball enthusiasts chose the better player between the two, there are several NBA legends who explain why they pick the Black Mamba over LBJ.
Steve Kerr explained:
“Kobe is the closest thing to Michael… I don’t think LeBron is Michael at all. I think he’s a very different player, different mentality, mindset. Kobe has the same mindset and mentality that MJ had, the ‘assassin’, the ‘I’m going to rip your throat out with my scoring, low post dominant fadeaway jumper’.”
Former teammate to both, Shaquille O’Neal said:
“Did you say LeBron James is the greatest player of all time? What about Michael and Kobe? So you’re just going to pass Kobe up like that?”
Dallas Mavericks legend Dirk Nowitzki revealed:
“Like I said this entire time he’s our Michael Jordan for my generation. He’s one of the best ever lace them up. And it’s been a pleasure and an honor to compete against him basically almost my entire career. I wish him nothing but the best for life.”
Allen Iverson, who the Mamba defeated in the 2000-2001 finals, said:
“LeBron is great… I don’t understand how they don’t have that debate with him (MJ) and Kobe? I don’t get it. You forgot? I think they really forgot the Mamba!”
The GOAT, Michael Jordan himself chose Kobe:
“Kobe or LeBron? Kobe.”
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Alongside these legends, there are several superstars, like Larry Bird, Kevin Durant, James Harden, Chris Bosh among others who choose Kobe Bean Bryant over LeBron James. Irrespective of who was better, we are blessed to be able to witness the likes of these two once-in-a-lifetime types of players.
