Possibly on the verge of a fifth championship, Kobe Bryant began his career at the age of 18, 14 seasons ago. Bryant, now 31, has had a successful career thus far. He has progressed like probably no player ever has. Most of the all-time greats were amazing in their first season, but Kobe had to learn to be great. From his time as a little-played rookie to a major component of a team playing in the finals, we look at Kobe and his teams through his ages: vs. Michael Jordan!
Age 18 -Kobe - After skipping college, Bryant didn't score much in his rookie year, 1996-97. Shaq was in L.A. and some of his teammates were Derek Fisher, Robert Horry, Eddie Jones, Nick Van Exel, Byron Scott and Jerome Kersey. Coach Del Harris led the Lakers to a 56-26 record but they lost in the second round vs Utah.
Age 18-Mike - At age 18, in 1981, Jordan had signed to play college ball at N. Carolina.
Age 19-Kobe - Improved a little in the 1997-98 season, but fell back in the playoffs as they lost again to the Jazz 0-4 in the Western Conference Finals. ...
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Article written by Isaiah Montoya
2010 NBA Finals: Kobe Bryant Through the Ages
June 10th, 2010 by Isaiah Montoya Leave a reply »
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