“I played with both”: Michael Jordan’s ex-teammate opposes Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s GOAT ranking with Kobe Bryant as No. 1

OKC Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is leading the quest to win the franchise’s first title. He spoke to the media on Saturday and reiterated his admiration for the late Kobe Bryant, calling him his favorite player.

“That’s probably my favorite player of all time,” Gilgeous-Alexander said. “I never got the chance to meet him. But not only me, for kids all across the world, his influence has gone through the roof because of the competitor and the basketball player that he was.”

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An old video on social media posted on X by "Ball is Life" emerged, showing the reigning MVP calling Bryant his NBA GOAT. He placed the late Lakers legend above Michael Jordan, an argument that was opposed jordan's former teammate, Ron Harper, on X on Sunday.

"He never played against MJ for sure (and) I played with both of them," Harper tweeted.

Bryant has been a role model to many current players. Gilgeous-Alexander is hoping to lead the Thunder to glory, emulating his idol.

The Thunder trail the Indiana Pacers 1-0 in the NBA Finals after losing 111-110 in Game 1 on Thursday. Gilgeous-Alexander finished with 38 points, five rebounds, three assists and three steals. Game 2 is scheduled for Sunday at 8 p.m. EST on ABC.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's teammate likens MVP to late Kobe Bryant

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's public adoration for the late Kobe Bryant is well-known. Ahead of the OKC Thunder's crucial Game 2 against the Indiana Pacers on Sunday, Jalen Williams likened his playing style to that of the Lakers legend.

"There are a lot of similarities there," Williams said on Saturday. "If you are really paying attention to basketball & watch the way he plays. He can pick certain aspects of his game. (And) add his own touch to it."

Gilgeous-Alexander's mastery of the midrange shot has fans remembering moments of Bryant. His ability to bait defenders into fouling him was also something Bryant did well in his career.

However, Gilgeous-Alexander wants to win a title, as his idol had five. With the Pacers standing between him and a first championship, how he responds will determine how much he has tapped into the "Mamba Mentality."

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About the author

Ubong Richard Archibong

Ubong Richard Archibong is an NBA and WNBA journalist at Sportskeeda with over a year's experience in the field with FirstSportz.

Ubong is an LA Lakers fan, and he grew up watching Kobe Bryant taking on everyone with his Mamba mentality. Ubong's love for the Lakers hit another level when his favorite player, LeBron James, joined LA from the Cavs. Other than LeBron, Ubong likes Anthony Edwards, Kobe Bryant, Allen Iverson and Phil Jackson.

Beyond the court, Ubong is a traveler at heart and a Chelsea fan, always ready for the thrill and tension they bring. When not working, Ubong likes traveling and volunteering.

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