Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: The Next Kobe Bryant?
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The comparisons between Oklahoma City Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA) and the late Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant are intensifying as SGA leads his team to the NBA Finals. Several voices within the NBA community are weighing in on the validity of these comparisons, highlighting both similarities and differences in their playing styles and career trajectories.
The Kobe Bryant Comparisons: What's Being Said
Bill Simmons, known for his sometimes controversial takes, stated on his podcast that SGA, “at this point in his career, [is] as good of a scorer as Kobe Bryant ever was.” He acknowledges the sensitivity of the comparison, given Bryant's status as a scoring icon, but insists that SGA's current performance warrants the consideration.
Former NBA player Lou Williams, who played with both Bryant and a young SGA, went even further, stating, “We’re looking at a Kobe Bryant being created.” He emphasized SGA's scoring prowess and overall impact on the game as reminiscent of Bryant's influence.
Even SGA's teammate, Jalen Williams, acknowledges the similarities. “If you are really paying attention to basketball and watch the way he plays, there’s a lot of similarities there,” Williams said. He highlighted SGA's ability to “pick certain aspects of [Bryant's] game to mimic that a little bit and then add his own touch to it.”
Where SGA Still Needs to Grow
While the offensive comparisons are gaining traction, it's important to note key differences. Chuck Klosterman pointed out that Bryant's sustained excellence over 15 years is a defining characteristic. Bryant earned All-NBA First Team honors a remarkable eleven times. SGA is in his third consecutive year. He also has 5 NBA championships compared to Shai's possible 1.
SGA recently secured his first MVP award and scoring title, leading the Thunder to a stellar season. He’s carrying that success into the playoffs, averaging impressive scoring numbers. However, winning an NBA championship remains a crucial step for SGA to truly enter the same realm as Bryant.
The Future is Bright
Still only 26, SGA has a long career ahead of him to solidify his legacy. Leading the Thunder to a potential NBA title would be a monumental step in that direction, further fueling the already heated comparisons to Kobe Bryant.