Gilbert Arenas recently ignited a heated discussion on Vlad TV by drawing a comparison between Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant. A passionate Kobe Bryant enthusiast, Arenas made it clear that while Bryant had great respect for Jordan, he was not a mere replica of the basketball legend. According to Arenas, the differences in their athleticism and playing styles were too significant to consider Kobe as a carbon copy of Jordan.
Arenas began by addressing the misconception that Kobe Bryant was a straightforward imitation of Michael Jordan. He argued that Kobe lacked the explosive athleticism and speed that defined Jordan’s game, particularly during the 1980s. Arenas noted Jordan’s exceptional physical prowess, emphasizing his impressive 48-inch vertical leap—a testament to his remarkable athleticism even in high school. This level of athleticism, Arenas argued, was unique to Jordan and could not be replicated.
He explained, “I’m a Kobe fanatic, but he’s not a carbon copy of Michael Jordan. I don’t like when people say Kobe was a carbon copy of Michael. Let’s go back to the basics. Kobe never looked like the ’80s Jordan. He didn’t move like him. He didn’t have the speed or athleticism of Michael Jordan in the ’80s or ’90s. Michael was athletic even in high school, right? A 38-inch vertical is still a 38-inch vertical, but a 48-inch vertical is a completely different jumping style.”
Arenas further elaborated that Kobe Bryant’s style resembled Jordan’s only in certain aspects. Specifically, he pointed out that the similarity was more apparent in Kobe’s later years, particularly when he wore the number 24 jersey. This phase of Kobe’s career bore some resemblance to Jordan’s playing style during his second three-peat with the Chicago Bulls, including his use of the fadeaway jumper and his characteristic facial expressions. Arenas acknowledged that while Kobe emulated some elements of Jordan’s game, it was only in this particular period that Kobe bore a closer resemblance to Jordan’s style.
He concluded by affirming his respect for Kobe Bryant’s achievements but maintained that Kobe could never fully replicate Michael Jordan’s unique combination of athleticism and skill. Arenas argued that Jordan’s impact on the game was unparalleled due to these inherent differences.
While Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan share certain similarities, particularly in Kobe’s later career, Arenas stressed that these are just facets of their respective games. Kobe’s extraordinary work ethic, unwavering passion, and determination set him apart and defined his legacy. For Arenas, what makes Kobe Bryant remarkable is his ability to push the boundaries of human possibility, not merely his similarities to Jordan.
