Published 18:42 IST, January 29th 2020

Kobe Bryant recalls how Michael Jordan schooled him, the first time they met on court

LA Lakers legend Kobe Bryant's tragic death has shocked the entire sports community. We look back at the time Bryant faced Michael Jordan for the first time.

Reported by: Sujay Chakraborty
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Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant passed away on Sunday after being involved in a helicopter crash near Calabasas, California. 41-year-old, along with his daughter Gianna and seven ors, were killed in tragic accident. While entire sports community mourns  death of basketball legend, we look back at a time when Kobe Bryant shared what it was like facing Michael Jordan for first time.

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Kobe Bryant recalls facing Michael Jordan for first time

Back in 2016, Kobe Bryant spoke to a leading media publication in US. He admitted that he was schooled by Michael Jordan  first time duo faced each or. 18-year-old Kobe Bryant recalled his first game against Michael Jordan and Chicago Bulls on December 17, 1996.

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Kobe Bryant, who had played only 18 games in NBA when he first faced Michael Jordan, revealed that he wanted to 'destroy' Jordan on court. Despite it being his rookie season, Bryant admitted that it was important for him to prove himself in front of NBA great. However, Kobe Bryant mand to last only 10 minutes in that game and scored 5 points. Meanwhile, Michael Jordan dropped 30 points in a 129-123 victory for Chicago. 

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Kobe Bryant furr shared a story from game where Michael Jordan embarrassed Bryant with his signature 'pirouette spin' at baseline. Bryant admitted that getting schooled for a baseline dunk by Michael Jordan was coolest thing from ir first match-up. 

Michael Jordan, 56, is a six-time NBA Champion with Chicago Bulls. Jordan and Bryant have been repeatedly compared with fans debating greatness of each or. duo, however, shared utmost respect off court and Kobe's tragic death has been ackwledged by Michael Jordan in a heartfelt statement.

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Kobe Bryant death: Michael Jordan's statement after tragic death

 

Kobe Bryant and Gianna death: Victims of helicopter crash

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18:42 IST, January 29th 2020