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Kobe Bryant: 50 Greatest Moments of Black Mamba’s Career

By Maxwell Ogden

Jan 20, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Kobe Bryant (24) warms up before the game against the Sacramento Kings at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 20, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Kobe Bryant (24) warms up before the game against the Sacramento Kings at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports /
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35. Dominating His Peers

Kobe Bryant made his first All-Star Game appearance in 1998 at just 19 years of age. He returned in 2000 and 2001, but it was in 2002 that No. 8 proved to be one of the game’s truly elite.

Already two-time NBA champion, Bryant added another accolade to his growing resume: All-Star Game MVP.

This award isn’t exactly the most prestigious in sports, but it’s telling when a great player can shine amongst their peers. Bryant did that and then some, recording a game-high 31 points, five rebounds, five assists, and one steal.

It must also be noted that Bryant did this against Michael Jordan, no matter his age.

This 31-point eruption helped spark—or, for some, facilitate—a debate that it was Bryant who had become the best player on the Los Angeles Lakers. Shaquille O’Neal wound up winning Finals MVP in 2002, but not without Bryant elevating his game to a superstar level.

Any time you dominate a group of elite players, it’ll be remembered.

Next: Banks It In!

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