A 19-year-old Kobe Bryant wasn’t backing down from anyone, not even the great Michael Jordan.
The late great Kobe Bryant had the makings of a star from the moment he stepped on the floor as an 18-year-old from Lower Merion High School. He was brash, confident, and didn’t fear anyone, including the iconic Chicago Bulls star, Michael Jordan.
On February 1, 1998, Kobe gave a hint of his immense skill and potential by scoring 20 points in a 112-87 rout of the visiting Bulls.
Sophomore sensation
After a rough rookie season, which many remember for the two airballs he shot in the final minute against Utah in the NBA Playoffs, Kobe returned for his sophomore campaign a different player. Although he came off the bench as the Lakers still had All-Star wingman Eddie Jones as the starter, Kobe managed to make the most out of his 26 minutes per night, averaging 15.4 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game.
So when Jordan and the Bulls came to town, Kobe was ready to showcase his talents against his childhood idol. The Lakers took over the game in the third quarter, where they outscored Chicago, 34-11, to bring a 91-64 lead into the fourth quarter that allowed them to cruise to the victory.
Although Jordan still had the better performance—he finished with 31 points and five rebounds on 11-of-26 from the field— Kobe had his moments, scoring on several fancy layups that drew oohs and aahs from the crowd.
The youngest All-Star
Kobe’s sophomore season marked the beginning of his rise to superstardom and, eventually, legendary status in the NBA. He earned a spot in the 1998 All-Star Game in New York City, becoming the youngest All-Star in NBA history at 19 years and 169 days old.
Kobe’s ability to rise to the occasion, even when facing off against Michael Jordan, showcased his potential as a superstar and gave us a glimpse of what was to come. The rest is history.
Source: si.com
