For many years, Los Angeles Lakers star Kobe Bryant has been compared to the man whom many consider to be the greatest player in NBA history, Michael Jordan. Kobe has spoken many times about the comparison, and Jordan has said that he believes Kobe has earned the comparison due to his accomplishments.
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The comparisons came again in earnest after Bryant passed Jordan for third place on the NBA’s all-time scoring list earlier this season. In an interview with Nike.com, Bryant spoke about passing Kobe on the scoring list, saying he feels like he’s carrying Jordan’s legacy:
Kobe Bryant on passing Michael Jordan: "I feel like I'm carrying on his legacy by passing him, because I've learned so much from him."
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) February 3, 2015
Despite the constant comparisons, Jordan and Kobe have a very good relationship and Jordan offered his congratulations to Kobe when he passed him on the scoring list. Kobe has always said that he learned a lot from Jordan and that he was his idol growing up.
The legacy of Jordan is something that has been bestowed upon many, but very few were able to live up to the expectations of carrying that torch. Many hoped that players like Grant Hill, Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady could do so, but despite all having excellent careers, none were able to match up to Bryant’s accomplishments and longevity.
Though he is gone for the remainder of the season, Bryant will have one more year to continue carrying on the torch from Michael Jordan. Fans everywhere would be wise to enjoy Bryant while they still can.
[divide]Derek Fisher On Lakers, Relationship With Kobe Bryant
