Kobe Bryant’s importance in the NBA has affected future players.
“The way he plays his game and the way he strategizes, I’m influenced. It’s more of the mental side of his game,” said Delta College basketball player Christian Allen.
The Lakers acquired Bryant in a trade with the Charlotte Hornets during the 1996 NBA draft.
Bryant helped the Lakers capture three NBA championships from 1999-2002.
Bryant became league MVP in 2008, while leading the Lakers to NBA Final ap- pearances (2008-2010), winning in 2009- 2010 while taking home Finals MVP for both titles.
Bryant’s strategic play led to some of the most incredible moments in NBA history.
He scored 81 points on January 22, 2006 against the Toronto Raptors (second only to Wilt Chamberlain’s 100 point in 1962).
“He wants to be like the ‘G.O.A.T.,” said Jordan Birdi a student from Delta College. “He definitely in my eyes is the best player after Jordan and there really isn’t any- thing else you can say”.
He has emulated his game throw patented fade-aways and even sticking out his tongue like Michael Jordan did in his iconic moments.
When Kobe’s last game is played he leaves a legacy of being constant professional, as he takes his place along others on the NBA’s mount Rushmore of players.