BEVERLY HILLS — The The five-time NBA champion, formerly Los Angeles Lakers great Magic Johnson, who also owns the Los Angeles Dodgers, Sparks, LAFC, and Washington Commanders, chimed in about the NBA GOAT conversation amongst fans and analysts, which currently consists of Lebron James and Michael Jordan and should include Kobe Bryant.
Johnson believes much of the debate centers around Michael Jordan and LeBron James, but even now, Kobe belongs in that conversation. Bryant’s impact on basketball was profound, both on and off the court, and his legacy resonates worldwide still.
“Offensively, Kobe stands out as one of the greatest. At the shooting guard position, or even as a small forward, he ranks just behind Michael Jordan,” Johnson said. “Regarding scoring, Kobe was virtually unstoppable, much like [Michael] Jordan. His skill set, determination, and ability to perform under pressure made him one of the most clutch players in NBA history. Kobe would be a top choice alongside Jordan if you needed one player to take the final shot with the game on the line. Both had the uncanny ability to either sink the shot, draw the foul, and calmly knock down the free throws to seal the victory. We witnessed Kobe do this countless times.”
Johnson also emphasized many who witnessed the incredible final game of Bryant, who finished with 60 points in a Lakers win over the Utah Jazz in 2016.
“Who scores 60 points in their last outing? Kobe did. It was a mic-drop moment, a performance that left everyone in awe, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest ever to play the game. The entire arena was electrified as he delivered one more masterpiece, reminding everyone why he was so special.
Kobe’s work ethic was legendary, and his dedication was unmatched. He would fly back from court appearances in Denver, land at LAX, and drop 45 or 50 points like it was nothing.
“There will never be another Kobe Bryant, and his contributions to the Lakers, the city of Los Angeles, and the game of basketball are immeasurable. Kobe’s influence extended beyond the NBA. He was a tremendous ambassador for women’s basketball and helped mentor the next generation of players, including stars like [Boston Celtics champion] Jayson Tatum.“
Many can’t deny the greatness of Michael Jordan and, currently, Lebron James; however, to overlook or be ignorance of the legendary greatness of Bryant is an absolute travesty, and if he were still alive and active in these NBA and basketball circles, there is no way anyone could leave out the name Kobe Bean Bryant when discussing the Greatest Of All Time.
“LeBron James and Dwyane Wade credited Kobe for what they learned from him during their time together in the Olympics” Johnson explained.
“In many ways, Kobe changed the game and helped it grow globally. His impact, both on and off the court, ensures that his name will always be part of the GOAT conversation.“
