Even though there are currently other athletes who practice just as hard as Jordan, his dedication and passion for the game of basketball is unmatched by any other player. Through his practice and work on the game, he was able to construct his body to be more adept to college basketball as he averaged 29.2 points, 11.6 rebounds, and 10.1 assists per game during his high school senior year.
He entered the college circuit averaging a triple-double during his senior year in high school, and he continued his success by becoming the ACC Freshman of the Year, averaging 13.4 points per game on over 50% shooting. Jordan greatly deserved this honor as he was able to lift the Tar Heels to a NCAA championship on a game-winning shot against the Georgetown Hoyas. This NCAA championship game marked the beginning of Jordan’s greatness, as it reflects the various clutch shots, high-pressure situations, and championship moments he experienced later in the NBA.
The experience he received in college with James Worthy and Sam Perkins propelled him to be the best all-around player in the NBA. During his NBA rookie season, he was able to score 2,313 points, dish 481 assists, and grab 534 rebounds rightfully earning him the NBA Rookie of the Year in 1985. In comparison, Kobe Bryant only scored 534 points, dished 91 assists, and grabbed 132 rebounds during his rookie season.
The talent gap between these two superstars was wide at their rookie level, but it gradually began to close as they reached their veteran years. At the end of Jordan’s 13-year career with the Chicago Bulls he was able to score 29,277 points, dish 5,012 assists, and grab 5,836 rebounds. Also, for the record I do not consider Jordan’s short stint with the Washington Wizards to be indicative of his basketball success. Although he did put up rather impressive numbers considering his age.
Kobe completed 13 years in his NBA career at the end of the 2008-2009 season, but he had only been able to score 23,820 points, dish 4,401 assists, and grab 5,019 rebounds. Kobe can continue his NBA career for a few more years, and attempt to surpass a few of these statistical milestones, but this would not mean that he is better than Jordan. Kobe may even go on to win a couple more championships, but that would not necessarily mean that his accomplishments are more impressive than Michael’s.
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