Kobe Bryant’s impact on the game of basketball is so massive that his influence is clearly visible in many of today’s NBA stars. Players like Devin Booker, Jayson Tatum, and even Paul George have openly modeled their game after him. But while they may have shades of Kobe in their playstyle, the gap between them and the Black Mamba is massive. Here’s why Kobe stands above them all.
1. Rings and Legacy Matter
The simple fact is that Kobe Bryant is a five-time NBA champion. None of the players in the image even come close. Championships are the ultimate measuring stick in basketball, and Kobe delivered on the biggest stage multiple times. Devin Booker got a taste of the NBA Finals in 2021, but he couldn’t close the deal. Jayson Tatum has also reached the Finals but fell short. Kobe? He won three straight titles with Shaq and then proved he could win without him by securing two more as the clear leader.
2. Killer Instinct – The Mamba Mentality
Everyone talks about the “Mamba Mentality,” but very few actually have it. Kobe was relentless, never backing down from competition. He played through injuries, delivered in clutch moments, and demanded excellence from himself and his teammates. Compare that to today’s stars—many of whom are criticized for load management, avoiding tough matchups, or lacking that true killer mindset.
Jayson Tatum is undoubtedly talented, but there are still moments where he disappears in big games. Paul George has openly called himself “Playoff P” but has struggled in the postseason. Devin Booker, while offensively gifted, has yet to showcase Kobe’s two-way dominance in high-pressure moments.
3. Offense and Defense – The Complete Package
Kobe wasn’t just a scorer—he was an elite defender. He made 12 All-Defensive Teams, proving he dominated on both ends of the court. Today’s stars are primarily offensive juggernauts, but very few lock in defensively the way Kobe did. Paul George is a strong defender, but he lacks Kobe’s killer mentality in crunch time. Devin Booker and Jayson Tatum have improved defensively, but they’re nowhere near Mamba’s level.
4. Work Ethic and Dedication
Kobe’s legendary work ethic set him apart. He was in the gym at 4 AM, outworking even his most talented peers. Many of today’s stars have great training routines, but none have stories like Kobe challenging his Olympic teammates to wake up at dawn for extra practice. His commitment to being great is why players like Tatum and Booker admire him so much—but admiration doesn’t equal achievement.
5. Longevity and Consistency
Kobe was dominant for two decades. He played 20 seasons with the Lakers and remained elite for most of them. His ability to adapt his game as he aged was incredible. Many modern players have yet to prove their longevity—Tatum, Booker, and others are still writing their stories.
Final Verdict: They’re Good, But Kobe Is on Another Level
The players in the image are all great in their own right, but none of them have surpassed Kobe Bryant’s impact, success, and mentality. Until one of them wins multiple rings, dominates on both ends of the floor, and displays an unrivaled will to win, Kobe remains the GOAT among them.
Would love to hear which of these players you think has the best chance to even come close to Kobe’s level!