Okay we have heard all the comparisons "Kobe Bryant or Michael Jordan?" "Dream Team 1992 vs. Dream Team 2012?" Kobe or LeBron James?
That last question might have been answered in Wednesday's U.S. Men's Basketball game against Australia.
LeBron James had the better all-around game getting a triple-double after scoring 11 points, grabbing 14 rebounds and dishing 12 assists, but what Kobe did was memorable and incredible, especially after the slow start he had.
Kobe made four consecutive threes to give Team USA a comfortable lead to finish the game. James kept the U.S. alive and Kobe catapulted them into victory.
It took him 1:07 seconds to accomplish the task, raising his total points scored from 8 to 20 in a matter of seconds. With his performance, Bryant sentout a warning, internationally and to the NBA, that he is still a great finisher despite being 33, turning 34 at the end of the month, and a couple of years away from retirement.
What makes this feat incredible was how slowly Kobe started the game. In the first, half he had more fouls than points made. All of his 20 points came in the second half as he shot 6/10 from three. He went from cold to hot in an instant. Despite his age, he is still explosive and a top notch performer.
Think about it.
When was the last time you heard somebody say Kobe has to play harder or that Kobe has to "show up in the next game?"
Never.
He always plays hard, whether with Shaquille O'Neal in his team or Pau Gasol. Night after night, Kobe still has a target on his back as the player that draws double teams and tough defensive assignments.
James tenacity and toughness has always been questioned. He answered the calling a few times during the playoffs, but that's because he had to. If James had played the way LeBron James played against the Indiana Pacers in Game 4 or Boston Celtics in Game 6, then none of those series would have been 1-2 and 2-3 in favor of their opponents.
Nobody questions Kobe's drive to win because Kobe has been about winning since day one. Being the best is not just about skills, it is also a state of mind and despite of Kobe's age he will always find a way to win.
Anyways, with the talents he still possesses, Kobe Bryant is proving that, until he steps away from the sport, he will be the best active player in the NBA.
