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NBA Legend Dwyane Wade Goes Off on Latest Kobe Bryant Rankings

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated Jul 24, 2025 7:36 PM ET

Kobe Bryant’s legacy has long been a lightning rod for debate in basketball circles. A five-time NBA champion, two-time Finals MVP, and 18-time All-Star, Bryant’s resume stacks up with the very best to ever play the game. Beyond the accolades, his relentless mentality and iconic performances—such as his 81-point outburst against the Toronto Raptors in 2006—have made him a symbol of competitive greatness.

Still, where he ranks on the all-time list continues to stir heated discussion among fans, analysts, and former players. Recently, the debate reignited after Bleacher Report placed Bryant at No. 11 in its latest ranking of the top 100 NBA players of all time—a decision that stunned many and drew criticism from players past and present.

Among the most vocal detractors was Hall of Famer Dwyane Wade, who blasted the list on his podcast WY Network by Dwyane Wade:

“If you want to ask us hoopers who played against Kobe, all of us are going to talk top three [of all time],” Wade said.

He went on to defend Bryant’s stature among his peers, pointing out that Kobe himself never cared about outsider opinions. “Who is these idiots?” Wade recalled Kobe saying about similar rankings in the past.

Dwyane Wade says Kobe is a top 3 player of all time and goes off on Bleacher Report for ranking him 11th on their all-time list.

“If you want to ask us hoopers who played against Kob, all of us are going to talk top three [of all time]”

(@wynetwork )

pic.twitter.com/h5q1NYT5h6
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) July 23, 2025

The divide about Kobe’s legacy often lies between numbers-driven observers versus those who watched him on the floor and were influenced by his approach to the game. Critics sometimes cite his field goal efficiency or playoff exits, while supporters emphasize his clutch heroics and unmatched work ethic.

However, Wade emphasized that Bryant's impact extended far beyond statistics and public polls. He argued that Kobe’s influence, dominance, and respect from fellow players are what truly define his legacy.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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