In my mind, this discussion is over and it had close to no merit to begin with. Until LeBron shows that he can even get back to the NBA Finals, there’s absolutely nothing you can say that supports the claim that he is the best basketball player in the world, much less the league. Don’t even mention his name in the same breath as Kobe and definitely not MJ.
I am not however, completely shutting the door on the guy. I have no personal vendetta against him nor do I secretly wish him a career plagued by disappointment and plight. I sincerely hope that he looks himself in the mirror and makes a few decisions about how he wants to carry himself as the face of the NBA and perhaps, the most sought-after figure in all of sports.
Kobe endured his share of growing pains as we all know, and now, it merely happens to be LeBron’s turn. One definite thing I would like to see from James is, a bit of separation from the rockstar attitude and a touch of humility. I’d like to see him become more about the game of basketball and finally obtaining the crown that eludes him so.
He and I share the same age and clearly, the similarities abruptly end there. However, it does mean that anyone who is 25 years old, would love to be in the position that LeBron has had the privilege of being in for the last seven years. As of right now, I firmly believe he takes it for granted and does not appreciate the luxury of getting to play basketball as his job.
Until he matures and earns an NBA championship, anyone who utters the words, “LeBron is better than Kobe,” is broadcasting to the world that they possess an irrational, poor comprehension of logic.
As Avery Johnson said last night during ESPN’s NBA Fastbreak, “LeBron James may be the back to back MVP, but Kobe Bryant is still the best player in the NBA. In the fourth quarter, you give him the ball and you can go win yourself a championship.”
Case closed.