Kansas City Chiefs superstar Patrick Mahomes, a two-time NFL MVP and multiple-time Super Bowl champion, found himself caught in one of sports’ toughest debates: The polarizing “Who’s Better?” contest in basketball.
Advertisement
During a playful segment for the Chiefs’ social media channels, Mahomes was asked to weigh in on basketball’s all-time greats. What began as a fun challenge quickly sparked fierce reactions in the comments. Naturally.
Mahomes started by showing love to the legends, picking a “prime” Shaquille O’Neal over the majority of players from that era. From there, the questions turned toward the modern era, where Mahomes had to pick between Stephen Curry and Kobe Bryant. He sided with Kobe. So far, so good.
However, things became more complicated when the conversation shifted to Kobe versus LeBron James. That’s a debate that has split fans and analysts for nearly two decades. After a thoughtful pause, Mahomes picked LeBron, which shocked many.
“LeBron over Kobe… never been more disappointed in QB1,” one fan said. “Should’ve picked Kobe!!,” another added.
“But pick James over Kobe fast? Ya, you lost me. I’m not a Kansas fan anymore, hope y’all don’t win another game,” a disgruntled fan commented even as others chose to be more subtle with their disappointment and shared GIFs of Kobe wiggling his finger.
View this post on Instagram
The Kobe vs. LeBron debate is centered on two distinct brands of greatness. Kobe is remembered for his clutch play, unmatched work ethic, and fierce competitiveness, the very qualities that forged the “Mamba Mentality.” LeBron, meanwhile, is celebrated for his statistical dominance, basketball IQ, and adaptability.
While LeBron holds superior career averages in points, rebounds, and assists, along with more MVPs and Finals MVPs, Kobe’s edge in defensive honors and championship win percentage keeps his legacy firmly in the conversation.
While Mahomes may have disappointed fans with his LeBron pick over Kobe. However, when the ultimate question arrived — LeBron vs. Michael Jordan — the Chiefs QB went the diplomatic route and. Like a pro, he simply said, “No comment.”
