The Los Angeles Lakers have a player who often operates under the shadow of the franchise’s biggest stars, yet that doesn’t make him any less impactful. Austin Reaves has proven to be a clutch performer who steps up when it matters most. Recently, he shared his pick for the greatest player in NBA history—and he didn’t go with either LeBron James or Michael Jordan.
In a social media interview clip, Reaves was asked directly, “Who is the real GOAT in NBA history?” Without hesitation, he replied, “I’m going to say Kobe. I’m a huge Kobe fan.”
While Reaves didn’t offer a full breakdown of his choice, his reasoning is clear. He’s been vocal in the past about his admiration for Kobe Bryant, and just acknowledging himself as a massive fan says plenty.
It’s worth noting that Reaves has previously referred to LeBron James—his current teammate—as the greatest ever. “My favorite player ever is Kobe Bryant, but the greatest player ever is LeBron James,” Reaves said in an earlier interview, per Spin.
According to a past USA Today feature, Reaves’ grandmother admired Bryant’s relentless mentality, which inspired the young guard to watch the Lakers legend closely and adopt elements of his mindset.
For many, Bryant’s place in the GOAT conversation is undeniable. He dominated the NBA throughout the 2000s, leading the Lakers to five championships, winning two Finals MVPs, and securing one league MVP award. His competitiveness and unmatched work ethic became the standard for a generation of players.
Bryant, an 18-time All-Star over his 20-year career with the Lakers, posted career averages of 25.0 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game. He also claimed two scoring titles and left behind a legacy built on skill, resilience, and winning at the highest level.
Whether one agrees with Reaves’ choice or not, his respect for Bryant reflects how deeply the “Mamba Mentality” continues to resonate—not just with fans, but with the very players carrying today’s NBA forward.