Kobe Bryant

The Black Mamba's Trail

 

In his final game against the Utah Jazz, Kobe Bryant's illustrious career came to an end with a performance you had to expect with the type of player he has always been. Sure he hoisted quite a bit of shots, but he wanted to leave a lasting impression and give the Laker faithful a performance they will remember, along with those 16 championships, for a lifetime. The Black Mamba delivered in a strong way as he scored a NBA season high 60 points. His inefficiency will be well documented, but Kobe has never been one to worry about his percentage. In fact, he is probably the last player that belies what advanced analytics experts despise. Bryant will be the first to tell them off and he has a fist full of jewelry to do so. Although the game was entertaining, I have to go away from it and shed light on his career. In addition, the effect Kobe had on and off the court as well as what he meant to the game. 

Bryant's NBA Draft Profile had him listed as a mature shooting guard with the ability to score at a high rate around the basket. He was considered a fierce competitor, a winner, and extremely intelligent. The knock on him was the fact that he was 17 years old, needed to add bulk, and his ball handling skills needed work. His NBA comparison was at best the next Grant Hill. With that being said, Kobe was taken by the Charlotte Hornets with the 13th selection in the 1996 NBA Draft. The Hornets would go on to send him to the Lakers for Vlade Divac. At the time, he was the youngest player drafted and needed his parents to cosign his first contract. Los Angeles was infatuated with the young guard, as he played better than Larry Drew and Michael Cooper in pre-draft scrimmages. Bryant started the season on the bench behind Eddie Jones and eventually became the youngest starter in the NBA. He averaged 15.5 minutes and averaged 7.6 points per game as a contributor off the bench. He was mainly a slasher and could dunk over opponents in the paint with flair. As a result, he participated and won the 1997 Dunk Contest. Over the next few years, Bryant would use his athleticism to "ascend" to the top as one of he best shooting guards and best player in the league. His explosiveness as a player would show up in the stat sheet as he quickly became a 20-point per game scorer and became a better defender averaging a steal and block per game at one point. Along with Shaquille O'Neal, the young guard would guide the Lakers back into the NBA spotlight as they garnered three straight championships from 2000 to 2002. During the Lakers three peat, Kobe would average 25.4 points, 5.1 assists, 5.9 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game. He would go on to hit a rough patch in his career in terms of team success, but he would elevate his game, as he got older. 

Bryant had a great two-season stretch where he put up astronomical numbers from 2005 to 2007. In the 2005-06 season, he had a great four game stretch where he averaged 45, scored 81 in a performance to remember against the Raptors, and broke Laker records for most 40-point performances and single season scoring with 2,832 points. Kobe would finish only fourth in the Most Valuable Player standings and helped guide the Lakers back into the playoffs with the return of Phil Jackson. They would lose to the Phoenix Suns in the playoffs. In 2006-07, he led them back to the playoffs after being snubbed for the MVP again. The Lakers looked well on their way to the next round as they were up 3-1 on the Suns. However, like the season before, they faltered in the first round. Jellybean Bryant had a bum knee that needed work that caused him to miss the FIBA activities that summer. This would be a blessing in disguise because it allowed him to get some rest and hone in on his craft. He recovered and began to realize he could not rely on his athleticism anymore. Being a student of the game, Kobe looked to the sustained success of the great Michael Jordan. He noticed MJ became more grounded and used his post skills to impose his will on teams later in his career. Bryant already had a smooth turnaround jumper and it was something that was well documented in his draft profile. He would go on to workout with the Hakeem "The Dream" Olajuwon to take his game to the next level. Kobe developed an array of post moves to go along with his patented turnaround, added great footwork, and emulated Dirk Nowitzki's ostrich shot. He would introduce these crafty skills the following season. 

Before 2007-08, Jerry West told the media Kobe wanted a trade and the Lakers were actively looking to fulfill his demand. The Lakers came really close to shipping the guard from Lower Merion High to the Bulls in a deal that included Luol Deng, Tyrus Thomas, Ben Gordon, and Joakim Noah. Bryant vehemently refused the deal because he did not want to go to Chicago if he could not play with Deng. The Lakers would get off to a fast start and eventually would go on to acquire Pau Gasol from Memphis in the biggest heist in trade history. Adding Gasol to the Lakers gave them the elite big man they needed to compliment Kobe. Bryant would show off his new skills on the low block while wearing number 24. His jersey would go on to be the top selling jersey that year in China. Back to the court, Kobe and Pau would guide the Lakers to the best record, 57-25, in the Western Conference and to the NBA Finals against the Boston Celtics. Bryant had finally won the MVP and was intent on capturing his first ring without O'Neal to prove that he could win as the undisputed number one option. The Lakers put forth a valiant effort, but the Celtics proved to be too tough and physical for them. Despite their loss, there was plenty of optimism surrounding the purple and gold as they had the looks of a team that could become a dynasty. Bryant struggled against the Celtics Fort Knox-like defense and did not trust his teammates. He realized in order to win he needed to trust his team and pick his spots as well. Bryant would go on to help the Lakers capture two more championships bringing his ring total to five and sparking conversations of him being better than Jordan. He certainly had the opportunity to tie him if the Lakers could another piece to an aging roster. 

Before 2012-13, the Lakers would complete yet another blockbuster deal as they added the best center in the NBA, at the time, Dwight Howard. With the acquisition of Howard, many spectators had the Lakers penciled in as NBA champions for that season. On the contrary, Los Angeles would struggle the entire season under Mike D'Antoni. D'Antoni and Gasol had well documented issues with one another and Kobe would question Howard's mental fortitude in the media. This is something that did not bode well with the big man and was probably the reason he ditched them for Houston the following offseason. The chemistry simply was not there for this group and it showed in their record as they went 42-40. They barely made the playoffs as an eighth seed as Kobe pushed himself to give himself a shot at a sixth ring. Consequently, he tore his Achilles against the Warriors on a drive to the basket. This would be the first of a few injuries that derailed Bryant at the back end of his career and the last time he led a team to the playoffs. The next few seasons he would struggle with injuries in his Achilles, knees, ankles, back, and shoulder. Bryant would have nights where he looked like a shadow of the megastar he used to be and other nights it would be hard to watch as he hoisted up shots. He inked a two-year 48.5 million contract that made it hard for the Lakers to reel in big name free agents like Carmelo Anthony, Lebron James, Dwyane Wade, and others. Others believed that free agents were turned off by the idea of playing with Bryant due to his propensity to test their toughness or competitive nature. There was no one that matched his love for the game and it is something he finally realize during his 20-year dominance. Kobe's love for the game, killer instinct, accolades, and statistics have many wondering if he is better than Jordan. 

Many have been debating if Kobe is better than or even on the same level as Jordan. In terms of numbers, both have scored over 32,000 points in their careers as Bryant is ranked one spot higher on the all time list at third place. Both were underrated passers, but Bryant is the only player ever to score over 30,000 points and total 6,000 assists. Phil Jackson coached both players and he talked about the differences between the dynamic guards in an ESPN interview in 2013. Jackson highlighted the fact that Jordan was a better leader and defender; however, Bryant had deeper range in terms of his ability to shoot from deep with ease. Jordan displayed natural leadership skills and did not have to always get emotional for his teammates to play hard. Bryant has always been emotional and at times teammates would not respond well to his words. Both were good defenders, but Jordan was more imposing. Bryant's range was superior as evidence by the game where he made a NBA record 12 three pointers. Their killer instinct is what separated them as they lived for the moment to put daggers into team's hopes and quiet crowds. Kobe is definitely on the same level as Jordan it really just depends on who you ask when you want to know who is better. 

Bryant will go down as one of the greatest Lakers of all time and that is saying a lot when you look at the long list of purple and gold legends. He helped restore a winning culture with his hard work and commitment to excellence. In his prime, Laker fans had high expectations that would often include the team winning a championship. His talent, Nike attire, and marketable persona helped him become an ambassador for the NBA overseas. Kobe's jersey and games were the most bought and viewed during his time as a professional. Today, many countries are vying for an opportunity to compete in the FIBA games because his game piqued their interest in basketball. Bryant's success as a partner with Nike helped make him a shoe icon and got every player to want his own shoe deal. Whether you are playing basketball at a local park or walking down the street, his shoe is ubiquitous. In his final season, Bryant went from one of the most hated players of all time to becoming a fan favorite by even archrivals. Although he was hated for various reasons, people recognize the type of player that he is which is a once in a generation type of talent. Players like Carmelo and Paul George shoot in high volume in their games that is reminiscent of "the Kobe System." Russell Westbrook and Andrew Wiggins display some of his characteristics as well. Westbrook plays with the same passion that the Laker legend played with and is admired by him. Wiggins has the same young body and athleticism Kobe had when he first entered the league. He too received praise from Bryant. Also, there are multiple rumors that reveal Bryant may be mentoring Kawhi Leonard at some point. This would certainly take his game to the next level and put him into the upper echelon of top players in the league. There may be players that remind us of him, but there will never be another Black Mamba. 

NFL Draft 2016

Hidden Draft Gems

 

Christian Hackenberg

Hackenberg had a good freshman year and his best year at Penn State under Bill O'Brien in 2013 when he threw for nearly 3,000 yards, 20 touchdowns, and completed almost 60 percent of his passes. He proved to be more than just hype as he was named Big Ten Freshman of the Year and a Freshman All-American. The young gunslinger had a good stable of backs, good offensive linemen, and a star receiver in Allen Robinson. In 2014 and 2015, Hackenberg's numbers dipped across the board as he made erratic throws and completed less of his passes. He did not have a receiver near the caliber of Robinson and his running game did not make it easier for him. As a result, he saw his stock drop from a potential first round pick to, now, being a second or third round pick. Hackenberg is not even listed in some of the draft experts’ top five for quarterbacks. He is certainly under the radar and for teams that need a quarterback he could be a player worth drafting because of his physical tools and on the field talent. The regression of the Nittany Lion product could be due to different coaches and probably a lack of talent to compete in the Big Ten conference. Head Coach James Franklin ran a run oriented offense as opposed to O'Brien who preferred a balanced approach. Hackenberg is 6'4 and throws the ball with good zip and has toughness. He has had three years in the pro system so the transition should be smooth. Restoring his confidence and cutting back on bad throws will be key to making him a starter. With the lack of talent in college, Hackenberg could end up being a better pro player. 

CJ Prosise

Prosise is a one cut back that was probably one of the more unheralded players on the Fighting Irish offense. He made the game really easy for DeShone Kizer after Malik Zaire sustained a season ending injury. Prosise eclipsed the 1,000-yard mark-rushing total, had 500 receiving yards, and scored 12 total touchdowns last season for Notre Dame. His season would have been better, but after the USC game he had multiple injuries that shortened his year. Prosise has drawn comparisons to Duce Staley and his background as a former receiver makes him an interesting prospect in a not so deep running back class. He is an elusive runner and has enough speed to score from distance. Prosise got better with every carry during each game in which he went over 100 rushing yards. He had a good pro day and his pass catching ability was surprising to some scouts. If he can develop as a pass blocker and stay healthy, Prosise has the chance to be a good change of pace back for the team that drafts him. 

Pharoh Cooper

The South Carolina receiver had a rough NFL Combine in which he dropped a plethora of passes and did not run a 40-yard dash due to bad quadriceps. However, Cooper helped his draft cause when he caught all of his passes, performed well in rapid punt returns, and ran a 4.61 40 on his pro day. NFL scouts even noticed an improvement in Cooper's routes, which they enjoyed. He is 5'11 and 207 pounds, but Cooper was a gamer in college. He surprised the Gamecocks, as he became the go to target at receiver in 2014 when he had 1,136 receiving yards and nine touchdowns. His numbers dipped to 973 yards and eight touchdowns, but that was due to bad quarterback play. Cooper brings a lot to the table as he can catch passes, run the ball, return kicks and punts, and even throw the ball. His quick cuts and burst out of his routes should help him out of the slot. He is not a traditional receiver and does not have natural speed. On the contrary, he has game speed and has the potential to be a game changer. Cooper is expected to go on the second day of the draft. 

Tyler Boyd

In the few games that I watched Boyd, I noticed that this guy had great hands and the fearlessness to go up for the catch in traffic. I mean his quarterback absolutely force-fed him at wide out and he did not care who was guarding him. Boyd had an extremely productive career at Pittsburgh where he totaled 254 catches, 3,361 receiving yards, and 21 receiving touchdowns. As a freshman, he broke multiple records owned by Larry Fitzgerald when he was a freshman. Boyd is most certainly the most decorated receiver to come out of Pitt since Fitzgerald and he shares some of his skills. Like Fitzgerald, he is not a speed demon, but he gets good separation at the top of his routes. In addition, Boyd will go up and snatch any pass in his vicinity. His numbers dipped each year as a Panther as the team would be forced to run the ball more. Boyd helped in that regard as a runner and he can return kicks. Like Cooper, Boyd is expected to be taken in the second or third round.

Jonathan Bullard

Bullard is a good defensive lineman who has the ability to play either defensive end or defensive tackle. He is best suited for a 4-3 scheme where he can excel as a tackle and cause havoc in the run game. He totaled 26 tackles for losses and nine sacks over the past two seasons for a vaunted Florida defense. At 6'3, Bullard has good size to bat passes down at the line of scrimmage with his long arms. However, at 283 pounds he is on the light side of the spectrum in terms of the prototype defensive tackle. Bullard has to rely on his ability to get off the ball well to make offensive linemen work against him. He excels in stopping the run and has enough speed to create problems in the passing game. Bullard has the skills to be a good complimentary defensive lineman to the star along the front. If he were bigger or faster, Bullard would be a first round selection. He held his own in the Southeastern Conference so that bodes well for him. Bullard should be taken in the second or third round. 

Carl Nassib

Nassib led the nation in sacks at 15.5 for the Nittany Lions stout defensive line. He showed that he is not a one trick pony as he garnered 19.5 tackles for losses and six forced fumbles. He is a towering prospect off the edge as he is 6'6 and weighs in at 277 pounds. Nassib came to Penn State as a freshman weighing 50 to 60 pounds lighter according to former head coach Bill O'Brien. It is likely he will continue to bulk up in the NFL. In addition to O'Brien, James Franklin raved about his practice effort and work ethic. As a former walk-on, it is evident that the same characteristics Nassib used to earn him a scholarship still persist. History has shown, recently, that former walk-ons progress well once they make it to the NFL. Players like JJ Watt, Antonio Brown, and Clay Matthews worked their way to stardom. Nassib has good closing speed and strength off the edge. His long arms allow him to keep offensive tackles at bay. The only knock on Nassib is the fact that he was a one-year wonder like fellow teammate Austin Johnson. He could go as early as round three.

Yannick Ngakoue

Ngakoue was extremely productive for the Terrapins of Maryland in the last two seasons off the edge. He totaled 28.5 tackles for a loss and 19.5 sacks as a starter. Ngakoue is not physically imposing as a pass rusher as he stands at 6'2. His 275-pound frame could help him because he has a lower center of gravity with raw strength. He dominated every tackle he played against including players like Brandon Scherff, Jack Conklin, and Taylor Decker. In fact, he had Scherff off balance quite a bit when Maryland played Iowa in 2014. Ngakoue has long arms and uses speed and strength to beat his opponent. The thing that stands out most on film is his ability to convert his speed to strength with tremendous force. He will have to develop his passing rushing moves to beat more established tackles in the NFL. Ngakoue is rated in the top 50 of draft prospects and could be a passing rushing specialist as a rookie. 

Kyler Fackrell

Fackrell is the new generation linebacker who has great size and the ability to defend the run and pass. Standing at 6'4, he can ruin throwing windows with quarterbacks because they have to throw over him. His size comes in handy as he blitzed the quarterback in college where he totaled 12 sacks. Fackrell defends the run at an exceptional rate with taking good angles and dissecting the play quickly with 36 tackles for a loss in his career. He averaged at least 80 tackles each season to round out his productivity. Fackrell's physical tools and productivity are most comparable to KJ Wright and Kiko Alonso. He is probably best suited to play in a 4-3 scheme as an outside linebacker, but he could play in a 3-4 at middle. Fackrell's size, instincts, productivity, and quickness have helped him jump up draft boards as a potential second rounder. Fackrell's sub par combine performance could cause him to be a third round selection.

William Jackson

Jackson possesses a 6 foot 189 pound frame, which makes him bigger than the average corner. He will fill out his body mass in the league, but he has long arms to compete on the outside. Over his first two seasons as a Cougar, Jackson had three picks and 17 passes defended. Most corners do not make that many plays in their career, but wait there is more. To follow up his stellar play, Jackson defended 23 passes and intercepted five passes. He is not a great run defender, but he will fill the gap on the outside when runners run toward the edge. The production of this corner is unreal and the most overlooked in this draft. If his on the field production was not enough, Jackson had a phenomenal combine to follow up a decorated career at the University of Houston. He ran a 4.37 40 and impressed scouts in the defensive back drills. Jackson reminds me of Eric Rowe last year when he came out of college. His speed, long arms, and desire to compete could make him a steal in a deep class of cornerbacks in this upcoming draft.  

Zak Sanchez

Sanchez is one of a few Oklahoma players that are flying under the radar in this year's draft class. He is a very intriguing prospect with high risk or high reward not only in his style of play, but also in his potential as a corner. Sanchez was thrown into the fire as a freshman and was picked on a lot by quarterbacks when they needed a big play. The experience he got helped him become a better play in 2014 as he was one of the most improved players across the country. Sanchez made a name for himself living on the edge at corner as he loves to jump routes and intercept passes. He had a game sealing interception against Oklahoma that kept the Sooners playoff hopes alive. He totaled 13 interceptions in his career as a Sooner. He is a smaller corner at 5'10 and will likely compete for a spot as a nickel corner as a rookie. Sanchez will need to become more disciplined in his technique and hit the weight room to help out in he run game. Taking risks will always be in his DNA that could help or hurt his team. 

Miles Killebrew 

Killebrew can be a Shaq Thompson or a Deone Bucanon type of player in the NFL with his supreme run game instincts and decent coverage skills to help in the pass. He will not necessarily be a safety, as he will be considered a hybrid linebacker. This is a position many teams will implement when they have a player of Killebrew's talent that they want to get on the field. Killebrew had a good combine and showed good skills in the ball drills. He has good form as a tackler with malicious intent with every hit. Killebrew will deliver bone-chilling hits into a ball carrier when he is within earshot of his opponent. He has a bad habit of waiting as a play develops and needs to get better in coverage. Bucanon took time to develop, but he saw extensive time last year for the Cardinals defense in his role. Killebrew is not nearly as adept as Bucanon is in coverage so it will take time. He could see time as a rookie as a special teams ace and possibly a defender in goal line situations.

Karl Joseph

Joseph was one of Dana Holgerson's favorite players at West Virginia with his ability to do everything despite being undersized at safety. He was a starter all four years and was an impact player from the first snap. At 5'10 205 pounds, he plays with reckless abandon as he hits offensive players with sheer force. Joseph has the instincts to play deep in cover 3 or 4 with nine career interceptions to corroborate this notion. He was a team captain as a Mountaineer and has a profound love for the game that intrigues many scouts. A torn ACL derailed the back end of his season and limited him at the combine. However, Joseph expects to be ready for training camp. If it were not for that injury, he would probably be a late first round selection. Joseph plays with a great sense of urgency in the run and aerial attack. He can play high with his playmaking ability or low with his toughness in the box. His desire to make big plays or hits can cause him to have breakdowns on the field. That is something that can be cleaned up with experience and good coaching. Joseph is comparable to players like Bob Sanders, Antoine Bethea, Donte Whitner, and Eric Weddle. His high character, multi faceted skills set, and love for the game could make him an opening day starter for whoever drafts him.