“Kobe Passed That Torch to LeBron”: Iconic Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant Moment From 19 Years Ago Still Resonates Among NBA Fans

One of the most iconic moments in basketball history happened 19 years ago today. Michael Jordan played his last match in the legendary Staples Center when he had a historic moment with Kobe Bryant.

When the Washington Wizards took on the Los Angeles Lakers in 2003, the crowd expected something special. They were treated to an iconic moment between two of the greatest NBA players, as that exchange between Jordan and Kobe turns 19 years old today.

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Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant share a moment with each other

During Michael Jordan‘s last season in the NBA, the Washington Wizards traveled to the Staples Center to take on the three-time defending champions. The Los Angeles Lakers team was stacked with superstars like Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant.

Interestingly enough, this happened to be Jordan’s last game in the Staples Center. This also happened to be the last encounter between Jordan and Kobe. With three NBA championships under his belt, Kobe was already a legend and he faced off against one of the greatest players the game has ever seen.

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What happened during the match is nothing less than legendary. Jordan went to the ground after a challenge from Bryant late in the third quarter and the two shared a light moment. Bryant throws a couple of playful punches at Jordan, who is still on the floor. Bryant helps him get up and the two smile at each other. Furthermore, NBA fans regard this exchange between the two to be the ‘passing of the torch’.

The Lakers clinched the victory against the Washington Wizards with a 108-94 win. Kobe Bryant took all the headlines from Jordan’s last game on the Lakers’ home court with 55 points. Kobe shot 15-of-29 from the field and had 42 of the 55 in the first half. (Source: Bleacher Report)

Fans react to the iconic event

Here are some of the best reactions to one of the most iconic moments in NBA history.