Kobe or LeBron?

When asked "who's the best player in the game" who would you have in mind? Most of you would probably choose between Kobe and Lebron.

One has been in the league for 12 years, wears three NBA championship rings, and named last season's Most Valuable Player. Not to mention the 81 point night he had against the Raptors (which is the 2nd highest individual scoring game in NBA history). The other has been in the league for only 5 years, named rookie of the year in his first season, was one of the front runners for NBA Most Valuable Player, led the NBA in scoring last season and now earns the nickname "The King".

There are many differences between these two extremely talented individuals. First is the experience. One won't have a good understanding on things he has yet to experience. That's why during critical points of the game you would go with Kobe than Lebron. Kobe has been in professional basketball since 1996 and you know that he has done tons of miraculous game winning shots through out his career. He can beat you off the dribble and attack the basket or maybe pump-fake you three times and shoot a fade-away 3-pointer left handed with two defenders and hands in front of his face. Lebron, without a doubt, is also reliable but there's a chance that he gets fouled and fail both free throws where Kobe also has an edge.

Size is also a big difference. Lebron stands 2 inches taller and about 50 pounds heavier than Kobe. With this advantage coupled with speed, Lebron will be able to attack the basket easier and more powerful.

There's also a significant difference between the two when it comes to shooting the ball. Kobe, undoubtedly, favors this one. He can shoot from beyond the arc way better than Lebron and connects his free throws at a higher percentage. He also holds the NBA record for the most 3 point shots (with 12) made in a game. That's why in situations where your team is down three with 10 seconds to go, you better give it to #24 than #23. I think Lebron should still work with his mid-range and 3-point shooting.

There are also some distinctions when it comes to their style of play on the court. Kobe is more of an individual player who could carry the entire load along. He's the type who may miss five consecutive shots but will come back with ten shots in a row. Lebron is more of a passer. Many compare him to Magic Johnson for his sharp court vision. Even his teammates themselves get surprised with his flashy passes.

I have to admit it, I enjoy watching both of them but I'm really more of a Kobe Bryant fan. I only started watching the NBA during the last LA Championship year (Beating the Nets 4-0 in the finals). I was 9 years old back then and i slowly got attracted to the game watching Kobe and the Lakers. But with Lebron James only with his sixth NBA season, we've already seen a lot. He became the NBA rookie of the year, has led the league in scoring and became a member of the USA Olympic team, the "Redeem Team" where he plays together with Kobe. It really is difficult to choose between them. But with the experience that Kobe has, I think he still has a slight edge over Lebron. Lebron may also want to improve some areas of his game particularly his shooting.

They may have a lot of dissimilarities when it comes to playing the game but obviously they're both amazing to watch. With Kobe's fancy spin moves, miraculous game winning shots, "in-your-face" fade-away shots and Lebron's flashy passes and emphatic facial slam dunks, what's not to love? Truly, NBA is where amazing happens.