Throughout the NBA’s history, fans have seen incredible displays of skill on the court. Many players have been debated as potential contenders for the title of all-time greats. In line with this discussion, former Team USA coach Mike Krzyzewski, also known as Coach K, identified the players he believed to be the most competitive in NBA history. He selected the legendary Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant as his choices.
Krzyzewski believes that Jordan, who was recently praised by Jayson Tatum, and Bryant are the most similar greatest players in NBA history. He believed that nobody was more competitive than those two men.
“I think they’re probably two of the most similar great players in the history of our game. They were just super talented, but they were also incredibly prepared. I don’t think anybody was more competitive than those two guys.” former Team USA coach Krzyzewski said.
Jordan and Bryant have both enjoyed long and dominant careers in the NBA. Jordan played 15 seasons and achieved numerous significant accolades, including six NBA championships, six-time NBA Finals MVP, five-time NBA MVP, and 14-time NBA All-Star. On the other hand, Bryant tragically passed away in a helicopter crash and spent his entire 20-year career with the Los Angeles Lakers. His key achievements include being an 18-time All-Star, the 2008 NBA Most Valuable Player, a two-time NBA Finals MVP, and induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2020.
Former Team USA coach Krzyzewski Discusses Jordan and Bryant’s Pursuit of Greatness
Krzyzewski further explained that both legendary players were aimed at being great, not good. He also shared a story about an impressive moment he had with Byrant.
“That was their personality all the time. When they were on the court, it meant something, whether in practice or in a game, and they were all business. They wanted to be great, not just good. They wanted to win, and they wanted moments – they were never afraid of them. I knew more about Kobe because he was on two of our teams, and I was the head coach. If it was a tough moment, he smiled like, ‘All right, this is what I prepared for. That other stuff was pretty easy, but this is what makes me.’ And he came through all the time.” former Team USA coach Krzyzewski added.
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Coach K spoke more about Bryant because he had spent a significant amount of time with him in the NBA. Despite everything, fans will always hold dear memories of Bryant.
