After Shunning Kobe Bryant in Viral Elite List, ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith Publicly Dissects 5x NBA Champion’s Legacy in Defense

NBA analyst Stephen A. Smith recently attracted fans’ attention with his top 5 list of influential players in NBA history. Well, this is certainly not the first time. Smith’s action has always managed to get people talking. So, it is not surprising then that the top 5 list has also spurred another discussion. While many seemed to be satisfied with the names, several raised questions about the absence of Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant’s name.

The Black Mamba revolutionized the basketball game with his unrivaled talent and unique mentality. The 5-time NBA champion and 2-time NBA Finals MVP is responsible for inspiring the young generation with his game. Despite being talented and accomplished, why was the athlete taken down from Smith’s list? Knowing that this might cause a wave of debate and controversy over the list, Smith stepped up to explain the reason to the public. Let’s find out what he has to say about it.

Why is Kobe Bryant not on Smith’s list?

In a live show, a viewer questioned Smith on why he took Bryant out of the Top Five list. Smith mentioned how there were several incidents that reduced his popularity. 

Explaining his reason to the viewer, he said, “He was derailed to some degree because remember his popularity took a hit because of the whole Eagle County Colorado thing in 2003….those kinda things are things that one would agree derail them and not only that some of his popularity took place before the advent of social media.” 

Moreover, he also stated how much of Bryant’s popularity was before social media came into the picture and that’s where LeBron James took over. The top 5 list also gained attention for its first spot. 

Stephen A. Smith chose Michael Jordan for the top position

The top spot on Smith’s list of most influential players list featured 6-time NBA champion Michael Jordan. However, it is not his titles and accolades that earned him the top 1 position. Jordan’s contributions outside the court have been significant in making the NBA a global brand. 

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Jordan’s deal with Nike became a game changer, not just in his career but in the entire NBA world. And that makes him the most influential player in NBA history, according to Smith.

What are your thoughts on this story? Do you agree with Stephen A. Smith? Tell us in the comments below.

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