The NBA All-Star encounter is always a game to await intently. It is a glorious coming together of the league’s biggest names, as they battle for supremacy. Over the years, numerous iconic All-Star games have taken place. Among the notable entities in multiple All-Star matches, are the likes of Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan, and more. There was one particular instance however, when this duo left NBA fans weak in the knees. In fact, it came in the build-up to an All-Star tussle back in 2002.
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Both Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan were no strangers to All-Star games. Two of the biggest names in the sport’s rich history, they have combined for over 30 All-Star appearances. While MJ was part of the annual encounter 14 times, Kobe was arguably the poster boy of the game itself. Before his untimely demise in early 2020, he had already earned himself an enormous fan base. Thus, it came as no surprise that a viral image of his alongside Jordan broke the internet.
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NBA fans react to iconic image of Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant
Way back in 2002, both Jordan and Bryant were part of the All-Star game. While ‘Mamba’ was still part of the unforgettable Lakers setup, ‘His Airness’ had shifted bases, and was with the Washington Wizards. Yet, the pair united during the weeks building up to the face-off. As a matter of fact, both of them, along with Antoine Walker were caught chatting in the locker room nearly two decades ago.
To be a fly on the wall for this locker room conversation. Michael Jordan holds court with Antoine Walker and Kobe Bryant before practice at the NBA All-Star game.
(2002) pic.twitter.com/eM30h9iBMy
— Hoops Nostalgia (@HoopsNostalgia) January 2, 2022
As seen in the image, the trio are having a discussion, leaving fans salivating. It occurred in the build-up to the practice session, where the teams were gearing up for battle. Years later, the image has resurfaced, but there has been no change in the expression of fans. Many of them took to Twitter to express their love and affection for the legends of the game. While one fan commented, “I would love to find those Kobe’s,” another said, “At first glance I thought MJ was holding a small child.” Here are some of the best reactions.
I would love to find those Kobe’s
— iDeeKay (@ooweeitsgee) January 2, 2022
Pretty elite pair.
— Hoops Nostalgia (@HoopsNostalgia) January 2, 2022
He was teaching young Bean how to talk shit like a real one pic.twitter.com/1wKwhIRLfY
— Ryan Foran (@rforan23) January 2, 2022
At first glance I thought MJ was holding a small child 😂😂 https://t.co/IDfRFzpMTH
— Andy (@WkndAtBertschys) January 3, 2022
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Wholesome photo of three of the best that laced them up… well I like to think it’s wholesome.
Mike probably talking shit or making a bet tho 😂 https://t.co/GshrmntxoM
— Adam Howes (@Howsito) January 3, 2022
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What did you think of the iconic image of Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan? Years have passed, but we all still surely miss these two on the court. Are you Team MJ or Team Kobe? Comment below.
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