Chicago Bulls point guard Lonzo Ball sparked discussion about Kobe Bryant’s legacy during a recent appearance on the Unapologetically Angel podcast. Ball shared candid thoughts on Bryant’s place in the Greatest of All Time (GOAT) debate.
“I love Kobe Bryant, but he was never the best player to me when I was watching him,” Ball stated. He cited Bryant’s record for the most missed shots in NBA history as a factor, adding, “Just because he’s got the most misses ever, you know what I’m saying?”
Ball went on to contrast Bryant’s career with that of Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry, whom he holds in higher regard. “His resume, the way he changed the game—he’s the best shooter ever. Carried USA. There ain’t nothing that he hasn’t done, and he’s got the rings to back it up too,” Ball explained.
Bryant, a five-time NBA champion and 18-time All-Star, is widely regarded as one of the most skilled and competitive players in basketball history. However, his legacy has been debated among fans and players, with differing opinions about his ranking among the all-time greats.
Curry, who has won four NBA championships and holds the record for most three-pointers made in NBA history, has reshaped the game with his long-range shooting and off-ball movement. Ball’s comments highlight the generational shift in how players evaluate greatness, emphasizing individual impact on the sport over traditional metrics.