Los Angeles Clippers guard Patrick Beverley has made the case for the late Kobe Bryant as one of the GOATs. Kobe is often overlooked in those conversations, even though plenty of people consider him at least a top 5 player ever. Michael Jordan and LeBron James always get the spotlight when it comes to the GOAT, leaving Kobe aside.
Bev believes that’s unfair with the Los Angeles Lakers legend. Kobe’s mindset and talent were something else, he always wanted to be better, and even when his body started failing, he found a way to show his magic. Beverley paid his respect to Kobe, claiming he was unguardable making an appearance on J.J. Redick’s podcast.
“I feel like you could play great D on Kobe and it didn’t matter. It’s up to him, he’s going to make, or he’s going to miss,” Redick started.
“And whatever he did, it might seem basic, it might seem slow, but there’s nothing you could do to block this man’s shot. I don’t care how many pump fakes he gave you,” Beverley replied.
Later on, Bev was asked if he believed Kobe was part of the GOAT conversation and the Clippers guard elaborated why Kobe is without any hesitation one of the greatest.
“Yes,” Beverley replied. “Game changer. When it comes to drive and determination after MJ, who was it? But no one likes to say it for some reason. Kobe taught people how to work hard. He gave you the blueprint of what you should do to be a successful basketball player. People tend to forget about it.”
Beverley was drafted by the Lakers in 2009, but he was traded away. He faced Kobe while the Mamba was reaching the latter stages of his career. Now Bev is seen as one of the best defenders in the league and a very valuable piece for the Clippers.
As for Kobe, he finished his career in 2016, dropping 60 points in his last game, demonstrating why he is one of the best to ever do it. He passed away last January 26 in a helicopter crash along with his daughter Gianna and seven other people.
Kobe’s impact on the league is huge and it will never be forgotten. No wonder Beverley believes he should be more appreciated when it comes to the GOAT debate.
