Along came the Black Mamba

Arguably one of the best or if not the best of this basketball generation and constantly compared to the greatest player ever to walk the earth - his airness, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant is certainly equipped with tremendous arsenal capable of even snatching that crown away from the reigning legend in due time.

Though Kobe modestly displays discomfort towards the comparison and even quotes in an interview that MJ is the greatest ever, the former's impressive credentials speaks loudly for itself.

Not a one man show

With four championship rings tucked under his belt, a fifth title is definitely not within heaven's reach for Kobe and his boys. A talented lineup consisting mainly of Pau Gasol plus the acquisition of man bulk Ron Artest from the Houston Rockets adding strength and offensive firepower, you don't need a Shaquille Oneal around to get the job done as evident in Kobe's recent championship with the Lakers.

And it's no question that Kobe Bryant can score at will, 81 points being his highest against the Raptors and second only to Wilt Chamberlain's 100. He's scored several 50 point games and even more than 60 point finishes.

But how do you define greatness? It's not about individual awards or recognitions, it's possessing the skill in bringing out the very best in your team, getting them very much involved in pursuing that needed victory. Dennis Rodman chose Kobe over Lebron during an interview when asked who was better between two of the league's best, stating further that Kobe 'brings other players in with him and plays smart.' Rodman even went to the extent of labeling Kobe as the "Michael Jordan of this era."

Mr. clutch in recent games

We've probably lost count on how many instances Kobe delivers the goods and delivers them during crucial moments. Buzzer beaters or dying seconds of the game, you'd expect the main man to step up and make that important shot in spectacular fashion, despite the opponents nerve wrecking defense. When it's winning time, no. #24 is unstoppable.

Lakers vs Grizzlies (2-23-2010)
Kobe making that clutch three pointer to tie the game and another three to win it. He missed out on five straight games due to a left ankle injury. Lakers won, 99-98.

Lakers vs Celtics (1-31-2010)
Kobe hitting a difficult jump shot with Ray Allen all over him with 7.3 seconds remaining. Lakers defeated Celtics, 90-89.

Lakers vs Kings (1-01-2010)
'Is there anybody more clutch than that man?', the commentator quoted, as Kobe made that buzzer beater 3 pointer. Lakers triumphed, 109-108.

Lakers vs Heat (12-04-09)
Kobe makes that running three pointer to beat the buzzer again. Lakers won, 108-107. And a standing ovation to go along with it.

Laker vs Bucks (12-16-09)
Mr. Bryant finishes with that amazing fall away shot. Not again! A game winner buzzer beater. The results: 107-106.


Once upon a time in Salt Lake City

He's the highest scoring Lakers player of all time and the youngest ever to reach the 25,000 point mark in NBA history. He's only 31 and he's piled up achievements one after the other. He might never be another Michael Jordan. But one thing for sure, he'll be the next greatest- as Kobe himself. So you better just watch out for the Black Mamba.