Michael Jordan is considered by many to be the best player in the history of the NBA. Ever since he has retired, fans have been looking for the ‘next Jordan’ and no one has come as close or in some people’s minds surpassed him than Kobe Bryant.
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Kobe had the opportunity to play against Jordan as he came into the league as Jordan was finishing up with the Bulls. Despite both players being so competitive, Kobe Bryant revealed to Bleacher Report’s Kevin Ding that he considers Jordan to be a big brother:
We hit it off very well. He was really like a big brother, and whether it’s because we see things in a similar way in terms of our competitive spirit or fire or whatever the case may be, there’s an understanding that we have—a connection that we have.”
Bryant would continue, saying that the two have a very good relationship:
I don’t know if he opened up with me more than he did with other players, I’m not sure. I don’t know if other players had the balls even to ask. But we have a really, really good relationship.”
Bryant’s name has been everywhere in the media since the summer. Whether it is speaking on his return from injury, backing the Lakers management, or dismissing commonly held beliefs from fans, Kobe has been an open book this year.
While everyone is quick to pit Kobe against Jordan, the relationship he has with Jordan is rarely discussed. While he invites some of the comparisons, that has not changed the fact that he and Jordan are good friends.
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