Bryant was exuberant after the victory, running toward the throngs of Laker fans and celebrating as if he had never conquered the NBA before.
It was reminiscent of the tears shown in Michael Jordan's eyes when Jordan held a championship trophy in his arms for the first time.
The comparisons do not end there when it comes to Bryant and Jordan, but the greatest player to play the game remains safe for now.
Bryant is one title away from Jordan's total, but for now, there is another part in history better suited to his name.
We can now begin the discussion over whether "The Black Mamba" is now the greatest Laker in NBA history. There are numerous stars to choose from, but it is beginning to seem that Bryant's dominance in his era will reign supreme.
Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Wilt-the-stilt, and Jerry West would have some claim to L.A.'s thrown.
Bryant has said himself that Jerry West holds the key to the Lakers franchise. West spent his entire career in L.A. leading them to one championship in 1972 and appearing in 14 all-star games.
The Lakers beloved star was great in his time, but we all know that Kobe will be the most well-renowned Laker when his career his done.
Kobe is still just 31 years old and he has already done more than most NBA greats do in their careers. In his third NBA season, Bryant was thrust into the starting lineup alongside Shaq and the two went on to give the Lakers a three-peat from 2000-2002.
Now he is two-thirds of the way to another three-peat and he can give credit to teammate Pau Gasol for bringing the Lakers back to championship worthy form.
Most of the greats have had a side-kick and Gasol is the new Shaq for Kobe, the Pippen to Kobe's Jordan.
Phil Jackson undoub...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
