Shai Gilgeous-Alexander comments on where Kobe Bryant ranks among his favorite players of all time

Gilgeous-Alexander looks up to Bryant’s NBA achievements

Since 2018, Gilgeous-Alexander has risen in the ranks as one of the NBA’s best players. He began his career as a promising guard with a natural knack for scoring in the paint. Gilgeous-Alexander has expanded on his game, becoming a fearsome isolation scorer akin to Bryant.

Gilgeous-Alexander is a special talent who learns well from mentors. That includes Chris Paul, whom he credits as one of the most important mentors he has had. He loves learning, which is evident in Bryant’s influence on his game.

The 2024-25 MVP even has a similar style with his mid-range jump shots and ability to draw fouls. Those were Bryant trademarks, which have become a vital part of Gilgeous-Alexander’s game. He is one of the best modern scorers the game has, and he will continue proving himself.

“Probably my favorite player of all time. Never got the chance to meet him. Not only me, but kids all across the world. His influence has gone through the roof.

“His legacy will be remembered forever,” Gilgeous-Alexander said ahead of Game 2 of the Finals.

“Because of the competitor and the basketball player that he was. Hopefully, I can get somewhere close as a basketball player one day. He was a special talent, special person, and God rest his soul.”

Gilgeous-Alexander has a tremendous future in the NBA

While he is seven seasons into his NBA career, Gilgeous-Alexander is only 26. He is only entering his physical prime, meaning he has more untapped potential. The Canadian guard is already ahead of most players in the league, as proven by his MVP.

If he wants to keep channeling Bryant, the 2025 NBA Finals is an opportunity for him to do so. He had a fantastic Finals debut performance in Game 1 with his 38 points. However, he wants to lead his team to victory and a championship.

Gilgeous-Alexander has a bright future ahead of him, possibly reaching the same level as Bryant. He might be too humble to say it, but he is on track to be an all-time great. He already has an MVP under his name, and the Thunder look primed to be the Western Conference’s next dynasty.

With multiple seasons of averaging 30 points under his belt, Gilgeous-Alexander is ready to become an all-time great. SGA is a tough defensive assignment; even the iconic Gary Payton has acknowledged he would struggle. Gilgeous-Alexander wants to live up to his potential and reach a similar level to his idol.