It cannot be stressed enough, how NBA legend Kobe Bryant’s untimely demise affected the whole world. The five-time NBA champion had left a legacy behind him that very few can dream of. Throughout his basketball career, Kobe made several rivals and friends alike. And not many can have a healthy relationship if you’re opponents on the court. But such was the relationship between superstars LeBron James and Kobe Bryant.

In several games, the duo had faced off against each other but that had never lessened the respect they had for one another. Like Kobe, LeBron has established his dominance in the league and has a legacy of his own. Both are arguably two of the greatest players in the history of the NBA. And when there are two GOATs on the court, fans and media can’t help but compare their skills.

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One would think that being compared to each other constantly would spark a rivalry between them. But it was actually quite the opposite.

Kobe Bryant and LeBron James’ playful interactions

Kobe and LeBron had once come together for an interview with ESPN. The duo were having a great time together, discussing their skills, and complimenting each other. Kobe had said that they both were passionate about the same things but had different ways of showing them.

In addition, the Mamba showered adulations on King James for his athletic prowess on the court. He even admitted that LeBron’s jump on the court sometimes looks like he’s jumping on a trampoline, not a hardwood floor.

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Whereas, LeBron replied, “His mid-range jumper is by far one of the best, you know, that we have, if not the best, that we have in our league.”

The video showed a short throwback clip from when Kobe and LeBron played for Team USA in the Olympics. LeBron showed his ‘Kobe Bryant look’ to the camera, as he tucked his shirt in. He imitated Kobe’s on-court hand gesture which meant ‘get the h*ll out of the way’ while Kobe kept laughing. After being tricked by him for five years, LeBron then told Kobe that he should change his signal as he finally knew what the gesture meant.

“That’s who he is man, he just loves having a great time, laughing and joking,” said Kobe, referring to LeBron’s playful personality.

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The two NBA stars did not really form such a close relationship right from the start. They had always been civil and respectful, but that was all. The duo actually started getting closer the year that Kobe passed away. And reportedly, it was what they had always wanted. Unfortunately, they just didn’t get enough time to form a great friendship.