Former NBA player Lonzo Ball recently stirred controversy by excluding Kobe Bryant from his personal Mount Rushmore of basketball.
A tweet read,
“Lonzo Ball leaves Kobe off his Mt. Rushmore “I love Kobe, but he was never the best player to me””
Lonzo Ball leaves Kobe off his Mt. Rushmore
"I love Kobe, but he was never the best player to me" https://t.co/1nXBaIx2XT
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) November 28, 2024
Ball’s Criteria for Mount Rushmore
When asked to assemble an all-time NBA Mount Rushmore, Ball chose LeBron James, Michael Jordan, Shaquille O’Neal, and Stephen Curry. He explained that while he respects Kobe Bryant’s legacy, he believes that the players he selected had a greater impact on the game. Ball’s criteria seem to focus on overall efficiency, versatility, and the ability to dominate in multiple ways.
Kobe Bryant’s Legacy
Kobe Bryant, a five-time NBA champion and 18-time All-Star, is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in NBA history. His relentless work ethic, competitive spirit, and scoring prowess made him a legend in the league. Bryant’s career was marked by his ability to perform under pressure and his dedication to excellence.
Lonzo Ball’s Perspective
Ball’s perspective on Kobe Bryant’s place in NBA history is unique. He pointed out that Bryant led the NBA in missed field goals for many years, which influenced his decision. While Ball acknowledges Kobe’s greatness, he believes that the players on his Mount Rushmore had a more significant impact on the game due to their efficiency and overall contributions.
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