The camaraderie between Los Angeles Lakers‘ standout LeBron James and the late basketball icon Kobe Bryant has been extensively chronicled since James joined the Lakers and even more so since Bryant’s tragic passing in 2020.
Their friendship blossomed over the years they both dominated the NBA, contributing to four of the league’s five championships between 2009 and 2013.
The roots of their connection trace back to January 12, 2004, marking the initial encounter between the two basketball prodigies who transitioned from high school to NBA stardom. On this significant date, James’ Cleveland Cavaliers faced off against Bryant’s Lakers. Despite Bryant being in his eighth season, he likely recalled the challenges James, a highly touted 19-year-old in his inaugural NBA season, was facing.
Recently, James had the opportunity to ponder this inaugural meeting and the profound significance of sharing the court with the legendary Bryant, as twitted by ClutchPoints:
LeBron James looks back on the first time he faced Kobe Bryant 🙏
LeBron went for 16 points, 5 rebounds, & 7 assists on 6-of-20 shooting. Kobe Bryant finished with 10 points on 3-of-8 shooting in the Lakers' 89-79 win over the Cavs.
(via IG/kingjames)pic.twitter.com/kgUH7kSOdh
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) December 22, 2023
James experienced an uncharacteristic off night, shooting 6-for-20, which is a rare occurrence for one of the most efficient perimeter players in league history. Simultaneously, Bryant aggravated a previously injured shoulder in the first quarter, limiting him to just about a quarter and a half of play during which he scored 10 points.
While the on-court outcome may not have delivered the anticipated fireworks expected from a clash between these two basketball legends, the sentimental significance of James and Bryant’s initial face-off is immeasurable. It laid the foundation for a bond that endured for the next 16 years and beyond for James.
Bryant immediately demonstrated respect for the young star, setting the stage for a remarkable friendship and numerous thrilling on-court duels over the years.
