Bleacher Report has released its rankings of the Top 100 NBA players of all time, and the placement of the late Kobe Bryant at number 11 has ignited controversy among fans and former players. The ranking, which was compiled by the outlet’s team of experts, aimed to evaluate the best players in NBA history based on their careers, statistics, awards, and cultural impact.
In this latest list, Bleacher Report named Michael Jordan as the greatest player ever, followed closely by LeBron James at number two and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar at three. Shaquille O’Neal, a three-time NBA Finals MVP, secured the sixth spot, just outside the top five. Bryant’s position, however, has drawn sharp criticism from several notable figures in the basketball community.
Shaquille O’Neal voiced his discontent on social media, stating, “Kobe at 11 is criminal.” His reaction reflects a broader sentiment among fans who believe Bryant’s legacy warrants a higher ranking. Former NBA player Etan Thomas also weighed in on the issue during an episode of his podcast, “The Collision: Sports and Politics.” He questioned the rationale behind Bryant’s ranking, saying, “The level of Kobe disrespect is crazy to see. In what world is he number 11 all-time?”
Thomas went on to suggest that the discussions surrounding Bryant’s legacy have become increasingly negative since his passing. “Let’s be honest, none of this disrespect was happening when he was still here,” he remarked. This sentiment has resonated with many fans who feel that Bryant’s contributions to the game should be more highly regarded.
Adding to the conversation, Klay Thompson, who was ranked 98th, shared Thomas’s comments on his Instagram Stories, expressing his disbelief with a simple “SMH.” Thompson complemented his post with a video montage celebrating Bryant’s iconic moments, particularly from the 2001-2002 season, when he sported a short afro, earning the nickname “Frobe.” He captioned the montage, “And this is just Fro-be #8… WTF is wrong with ya’ll?” highlighting the emotional connection fans have with Bryant’s legacy.
Throughout his illustrious career, Kobe Bryant achieved remarkable milestones, including five NBA championships, 18 All-Star selections, and 11 first-team All-NBA selections. His impact on the sport extends beyond statistics, as he inspired countless players and fans around the world.
The debate over his ranking underscores the ongoing discussions about player legacies and the criteria used to evaluate greatness in the NBA. As fans and former players continue to voice their opinions, it is clear that Kobe Bryant’s legacy remains a significant part of basketball history.
