How Kobe Bryant Strived to Be the Closest Thing to Michael Jordan

Kobe Bryant, widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, always admired Michael Jordan for his unparalleled skills and competitive spirit. Bryant’s journey to emulate Jordan went beyond mere imitation; it was a dedicated pursuit to understand and embody the very essence of “His Airness.”

In interviews and public discussions, Bryant often spoke about how Jordan’s influence shaped his career. Their relationship evolved from idol-worship to a close mentorship, with Jordan becoming a big brother figure to Bryant. “Michael in particular, he’s become my big brother, he’s been my big brother since I first came in the league,” Bryant reflected in a 2019 interview. “What was that process like? I went to them and started understanding the ins and outs of the game, how they approached things in their level of detail and obsessiveness, and that’s what I did.”

Bryant’s admiration for Jordan was evident in his meticulous approach to studying the game. He spent countless hours analyzing Jordan’s game tapes, dissecting every move and decision to understand what made Jordan so dominant. This process wasn’t just about watching; it was about absorbing Jordan’s mindset, work ethic, and approach to the game.

Bryant understood that emulating Jordan required more than just talent; it demanded sacrifices and an unwavering commitment. “The players that had that passion but weren’t willing to commit their entire lives to doing that… it’s a choice,” Bryant explained. “You have other things… family, all these other things you have to do… the game really can’t be your No. 1 priority. I was just looking at that like, man, this is going to be fun.”

Bryant’s dedication paid off, as he built a legendary career characterized by relentless pursuit of excellence. His approach to the game mirrored Jordan’s in many ways, from his intense practice routines to his on-court demeanor. While no one can replicate Jordan’s unique impact, Bryant’s ability to channel Jordan’s influence into his own career stands as a testament to his dedication and passion for the game.

Despite the fact that Jordan’s level of greatness is singular, Bryant’s efforts to match and perhaps even surpass his idol highlight his own remarkable achievements and deep respect for the game of basketball.