The 13-time All-Star, Bryant, who has had one of the most storied careers of any player in NBA history, has been a star ever since he came into the league nearly 15 years ago.
1996-1997
As an 18-years-old rookie, Bryant showed off his athleticism by winning the All-Star Slam Dunk competition.
1997-1998
As the Lakers' sixth man, the second-year Bryant was already so popular that he was voted in as a starter for the All-Star game.
1998-1999
Bryant appeared on the cover of the video game NBA Courtside 98, as he became the youngest player to have a game to his namesake.
1999-2004
After a 12-year drought, the Lakers won three consecutive NBA titles, with Bryant as well as center Shaquille O'Neal leading the way.
The Lakers won at least 50 games each of the next two seasons, including another NBA Finals appearance in 2004.
2004-2007
O'Neal was traded after the 2004 finals and the Lakers began to struggle, but Bryant did not fall off the map whatsoever.
During this time, Bryant entered the prime ages of 26-28.
So, even though the Lakers averaged just 42 wins over three seasons, Bryant won multiple scoring titles and was widely considered the best player in the game.
2007-2008
In the middle of the 2007-2008 season, the Lakers acquired Pau Gasol and Los Angeles once again became the team to beat in the Western Conference.
Bryant won his first MVP award and the Lakers reached the finals for the first time in four years.
Right after the NBA Finals, Kobe Bryant competed for ...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
