Former NBA player Trevor Ariza has weighed in on the Greatest of All Time (GOAT) debate, placing Kobe Bryant and LeBron James at the pinnacle, sharing the 1A and 1B spots.

Ariza, who had the privilege of playing alongside both basketball legends, unequivocally asserted, “Kobe Bryant is the best player ever,” during a conversation with Shannon Sharpe on Club Shay Shay.

This declaration is noteworthy, especially considering Ariza’s omission of Michael Jordan, a name commonly associated with the GOAT title, from his top-tier ranking.

Having experienced Bryant’s leadership firsthand during their time together with the Lakers, Ariza’s endorsement adds a unique perspective to the ongoing debate.