The debate for the title of the Greatest of All Time player in the history of the NBA often involves Los Angeles Lakers star player LeBron James and Chicago Bulls legend Michael Jordan. Many NBA analysts, players, and fans regularly discuss and debate who is the better candidate for this honor. However, an NFL player recently made some shocking remarks about the NBA GOAT debate. Buffalo Bills wide receiver Keon Coleman shocked spectators by declaring Kobe Bryant—who tragically died in a helicopter crash in January 2020—to be his choice. He mentioned that LeBron James is a gifted athlete, while Bryant earned everything, including his basketball skills and speed. He also mentioned his respect for Bryant’s work ethic and the love he had for the game.

“Bron got gifted with it. … Kobe was nothing crazy with no 50″ vert. He was no super fast player. But he worked for everything he got. And I just respect the work and the love that he had for the game.” Keon Coleman said.

Keon Coleman Draws Inspiration from Mamba Mentality

Although Bryant and James were very close friends, they were often compared because of their basketball skills, professional careers, and NBA awards and achievements. Despite the disputed nature of it, Coleman’s perspective reveals the immaterial attributes that go beyond mere evidence to characterize brilliance.

The NFL player admires Bryant’s hard work and dedication throughout his career, which exemplifies the Mamba Mentality – a never-ending desire for greatness and perfection. Coleman regarded Bryant as special because of his unwavering work ethic, dedication to perfecting every area of his game, and fierce competitiveness.

Bryant was often praised by professional athletes for his Mamba mentality. NBA commissioner Adam Silver once remarked about Bryant, stating “Bryant is one of the greatest players in the history of our game.” Additionally, The New York Times wrote that Bryant had “one of the most decorated careers in the history of the sport.” 

In addition to Coleman’s remark, a former NBA player recently shocked everyone by suggesting that Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Kobe Bryant aren’t among the top 5 all-time greats.