While there were a few players who were thought to be the heir apparent of the “Greatest of All Time,” Michael Jordan, nobody else came closer to inheriting His Airness’ throne than the late, great, Kobe Bryant. Whether it was their shared killer instinct on the court or their unmatched work ethic, Kobe and Michael were often compared throughout their careers.
However, according to former Los Angeles Lakers star James Worthy, there was one key difference between the two legends that set Kobe apart. In his speech during the unveiling of Kobe’s statue, Worthy praised Bryant for his unwavering focus on basketball, something he believes separated him from Jordan.
Kobe didn't have hobbies
Bryant played his entire career in the City of Angels, a place renowned for its glitz and glamour. However, while many of his colleagues indulged in the Hollywood lifestyle, Kobe remained laser-focused on basketball. Worthy shared that Bryant’s dedication to the game was unlike anything he had ever seen before.
"I never thought I would see more of an assassin than Michael Jordan until Kobe. Michael didn't care about anyone, but he had hobbies—golf, baseball. Kobe had no hobbies. His hobby was to assassinate you," Worthy said.
There are many stories of how dedicated Kobe was to the game of basketball. From his early-morning workouts during his time with the Redeem Team that shocked many of his teammates, to his all-day workouts in the offseason that helped him win five NBA championships, Kobe was known for his relentless work ethic.
Jordan’s hobbies
Not to say that Jordan wasn’t as dedicated to the game, because he was. He wouldn’t have become the greatest basketball player of all time without his dedication and hard work. But Jordan also had other interests outside of basketball, and these were well-known throughout his career.
Jordan often took time out even during the season to play golf, which was a passion of his. According to former Miami Heat two-guard Steve Smith, Jordan scored 56 points in Game 3 of the 1992 First Round against the Heat, which reportedly came after he played golf at one of Miami’s courses.
"And the rumor was that he played 36 holes of golf earlier in the day, which hurt my feelings. I don't know if he played 36 holes or if he played 18. But still, whatever it was, it hurt my feelings that he played golf and he came out and scored 56 for a win," Smith said.
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