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The NBA world witnessed two of the greatest shooting guards in history, the names being Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan. Thus, an endless debate about who’s better rages on, with many chalking up their opinions on the internet.

Among them is ESPN broadcaster Stephen A. Smith, who talked about the greatness of Bryant compared to Jordan. But who has the controversial reporter backed in this debate?

Kobe Bryant’s unique path to GOAT confidence

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In his show, First Take, Smith began by expressing some statistics on ‘Black Mamba’. “Kobe Bryant, of all the points that he scored—2086 assists were given to him. Only two were by point guards, the other four leaders in assists to him were from forwards or centers.”

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While the infamous reporter didn’t have any statistics for “god” Jordan, he backed those for Bryant and claimed why the debate over who’s the GOAT between them should be taken seriously.

“Kobe’s thinking about what he had to do to elevate his numbers,” Smith continued, his words flowing with a rhythm reminiscent of a slam dunk. He delved deeper, drawing parallels between Kobe and the other GOAT contender, Michael Jordan. “They both played in the triangle for the same coach, with a similar type of point guard. But not the similar type of supporting cast.”

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Supporting cast: Kobe Bryant vs. Michael Jordan

With a flair for words and a knack for transitions, Smith compared NBA legends like Scottie Pippen and BJ Armstrong to Shaq and other formidable players alongside Kobe. His point was clear: the dynamics surrounding Bryant and Jordan were very different.

“I’m not saying Jordan wasn’t a great passer,” Smith exclaimed, his voice brimming with excitement. “I understand. But, you know, mostly, for the most part, he was dominant when he got the ball. My only point in bringing that up is to say, you talked to Kobe, the important thing to understand, for us all, he’s not playing. No, he believed. He believes.”

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As Smith’s fervent words echoed through the airwaves, his message remained steadfast: Kobe Bryant’s belief in his GOAT status was unshakeable, his journey to greatness distinct from that of Michael Jordan. Amidst the chatter of basketball fans, Stephen A. Smith’s analysis reigned supreme — a testament to the complexity and charisma of the game’s most revered players.

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