Kobe Bryant told Michael Jordan that he could "kick his ass" one on one

Phil Jackson is coming out with another book, and I for one can’t wait to read it. Phil’s insight and approach to the hardwood translate well to hardcover, as few players or coaches can convey their ideology as well with the written word. 

The new book, aptly titled 11 Rings: The Soul of Success, supposedly focuses a good deal on Kobe Bryant, and it even finds Phil discussing the Kobe/Jordan comparison; a topic he has largely shied away from in the past. 

Considering Jackson was the man that led both MJ and KB to all of their NBA titles, it will be interesting to hear his insight on the issue.  

Image from: www.asportinglife.com

According to Jackson, Kobe’s desire not only to be great, but to literally be better than Michael was evident from the beginning. In 11 Rings, he reflects fondly on a face-to-face meeting between Michael and Kobe during his first season as head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers.

"Kobe was hell-bent on surpassing Jordan as the greatest player in the game. His obsession with Michael was striking," Jackson stated.

"When we played in Chicago that season, I orchestrated a meeting between the two stars, thinking that Michael might help shift Kobe's attitude toward selfless teamwork,” he continued.
 
After they shook hands, the first words out of Kobe's mouth were, 'You know I can kick your ass one on one.'"

One could never claim that Kobe lacks confidence, and it is bold, brash statements like this that have made Kobe such a polarizing player. 

I can’t wait for some more gems like this out of 11 Rings, which will be available next Tuesday, May 21^st.