"I grew up admiring Kobe ... and obviously the force that Shaq played with." LeBron on how it feels to be mentioned alongside Kobe and Shaq

The Press Box Brian Windhorst on LeBron He was chasing the figurative ghost with Jordan and now he has to play against a literal ghost the spirit of Bryant He would have never equaled Kobe in Lakers fans' eyes people are at that statue 247

Bleacher Report 2026 NBA Draft prospects talk about their first LeBron James memory

Jaylen Brown I was inspired by LAs Kobe Bryant He inspired me not only to play basketball but his thoughts and everything he did off the court inspired me as well

Brian Windhorst I admire the Heat organization so much I value the relationships createdI learned so much listening to RileyThey conduct themselves w professionalism class I've got nothing but wonderful positive things to say about MiamiI think LeBron might feel the same

Magic Michael Kareem Kobe had killer instincts I love LeBron but at times he doesn't bring it the way we want him to bring it like James Harden -Tim Hardaway Sr talks

Magic Michael Kareem Kobe had killer instincts I love LeBron but at times he doesn't bring it the way we want him to bring it like James Harden -Tim Hardaway Sr talks about the top 5