NBA fans might certainly want to know which version of Kobe Bryant is better. Many of us are already aware that the late Bryant is a Los Angeles Lakers legend and is considered by many to be one of the greatest players in the history of the NBA. He has 5 NBA titles with multiple other accolades throughout his 20-year career.
Veteran fans will be aware that Bryant wore two jerseys throughout his NBA career. During his initial years, the Black Mamba wore #8 when on the court. However, he later changed his jersey number to #24 just around the midway point of his career.
Since it was pretty much dead center in the middle of Bryant’s career, some fans are left puzzled regarding which version of Kobe was better. With that being said, let us take a closer look and analyze the accomplishments of both #8 and #24 Kobe Bryant.
Kobe Bryant is best remembered for wearing jersey #24
Although both iconic versions of Kobe Bryant had their own pros, the majority of the NBA world remembers Kobe better for wearing #24. He switched numbers midway through the 2006-2007 NBA season. When asked for a reason, he merely claimed that it was a sign of growth. However, many felt that he wore #24 in order to show Michael Jordan that he was one step ahead of him.
Kobe initially wore number #8 when he came into the league. He wore the same jersey during his first three NBA championships alongside Shaquille O’Neal. He continued to rep #8 even after Shaq left the team. In order to get to the next level Kobe had to further hone his skills. Many have opined that he started wearing #24 after having done so.
Kobe won back-to-back championships for the Los Angeles Lakers in 2009 and 2010. This was just a few years after he decided to change his jersey number. By winning 5 NBA championships, Bryant was able to establish himself as an NBA great.
As for which version was better, it depends on how we think about it. Some of the best seasons of Bryant’s career were during his time as #8. In fact, in the season prior to changing his jersey number, Bryant averaged a ridiculous 35.4 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.5 assists. Since those are the best numbers that he has put up, we have to give #8 Kobe a fair amount of respect.
Therefore, it makes sense that the Los Angeles Lakers decided to retire both jerseys of the Black Mamba. Although he is no longer with us, Kobe’s legacy lives on in the NBA.