Kobe Bryant

Kobe Bryant is by many considered to be the most complete basketball player in the world today. Due to his style of play, competitive nature and high-flying dunks, he has often been likened to Michael Jordan in his prime. Kobe is also an elite defender and known to come through with game-winning shots in the clutch.

At 6-6/1,99m, Bryant has played his entire career for the NBA’s Los Angeles Lakers. While teamed with Shaquille O’Neal, Bryant won three consecutive NBA titles (2000-01-02) and advanced to the Finals in 2004. But the stars’ personalities clashed and Bryant was widely blamed for the trade that sent Shaq to the Miami Heat in the summer of 2004.

Bryant responded to this criticism by winning scoring titles in 2005/06 and 2006/07 and coming second in 2004/05. His most impressive scoring feat occurred on 1/22/2006 when he posted 81 points against the Toronto Raptors – the second highest total in NBA history. Kobe’s Lakers, however, have failed to get past the second round in the playoffs in recent years.

This season though, with Pau Gasol joining the team and young center prospect Andrew Bynum blossoming, Kobe has a real shot at adding a fourth title.

Created by: Ole Last edited by: Berlin