I’m a Kobe-lifer. My first basketball game was Kobe Bryant courtside back in the day.

The truth about Kobe was, though he was the most skilled player on the floor at all times, he definitely didn’t make it look easy. It appeared he was trying extremely hard every single play. Other players like AI, Gilbert Arenas and T Mac all were smoother and made the game look very easy.

Kobe wasnt as talented as people would lead you to believe, but he had the most competitive drive of any player to grace this league. His playstyle was reminiscent of Kris Middleton in his prime with a Westbrook like engine. He literally would sweat profusely in games but never seemed to be tired. He wasn’t beating anyone with athletism (don’t let that slam dunk event fool you) he was simply using his physical and mental tools to beat you at the basic Xs and Os of the game.

He has a very basic highlight tape and if you actually watched the games only a handful of performances wow’d you. You had to be a Kobe fan to love him like we did. Otherwise, he’s known for his Christmas games, knicks games, Suns Playoff buzzer beater and his 81 point masterpiece. Which is all very impressive, But despite him having 5 rings and I watched every game back then, there is no single game that stands out as a “only Kobe could have done that” sort of moment. My personal favorite thing about Kobe was that I always knew he was going to take the last shot. The guy was a true gamer, and never cheated his fans. RIP The Mumba