One of the greatest legends in NBA history, Kobe Bryant, defined an entire generation of basketball fans with his brilliance on the court. The former Los Angeles Lakers guard left a lasting legacy that continues to influence the game, but there are still moments when he is not given full recognition in conversations about the all-time greats.
Those Lakers championship teams featured a number of strong role players, yet none could match the dominance of Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal. Widely regarded as one of the most iconic duos in league history, they overwhelmed opponents on a nightly basis and could have extended their reign of dominance if not for their eventual split.
On the birthday of the late superstar, O’Neal decided to make his stance clear on the most debated topic in the sport. The 15-time All-Star said he is frustrated whenever Kobe Bryant is excluded from discussions about the greatest of all time. “I get frustrated when people talk about the GOATs of the game and don’t mention Kobe Bryant,” O’Neal said.
Of course, there are arguments often made against Bryant’s inclusion in that conversation. Some point to players with more MVP awards or a larger impact on their franchises, using accolades as the deciding factor in the debate.
The Hall of Fame guard won just one regular-season MVP across his career, a number that pales in comparison to Lakers forward LeBron James and Chicago Bulls legend Michael Jordan, both of whom O’Neal mentioned in his remarks. In GOAT debates, everything counts — championships, stats, individual awards, and overall influence on the game.
It is not surprising, then, that some fans place Bryant a tier below James and Jordan. While many consider him a top-10 player of all time, O’Neal strongly believes his late friend deserves a far greater place in the conversation. The debate is ongoing, and perspectives on Bryant’s legacy could continue to evolve with time.
One of the foundations of Bryant’s greatness was his relentless work ethic, famously known as the “Mamba Mentality.” He became legendary for his obsessive drive to improve, often training long before and after his teammates had left the gym. That mentality fueled him to expand his skill set and build an offensive arsenal that made him nearly unstoppable, establishing him as the ultimate symbol of discipline.
Bryant’s ability to deliver in clutch moments also elevates his standing among the legends. Throughout his career, he earned a reputation as one of the most reliable late-game performers in the league, never shying away from taking the decisive shot. His unshakable confidence under pressure, showcased in five NBA championships and countless game-winners, solidified his status as a lethal competitor.
Finally, Bryant’s longevity and accomplishments remain unmatched. Across 20 seasons with the Lakers, he built one of the most decorated résumés in NBA history: five championships, 18 All-Star selections, one league MVP, and two Finals MVPs. His consistency and excellence over two decades secured his place as one of the game’s most prolific scorers and a true basketball icon.