With basketball debates being as ingrained in the daily life at BSTN HQ as the latest sneaker releases and hand-picked premium sportswear labels, the Hoops Treasure Trove provides an outlet. In irregular intervals and in no particular order, we’ll compile certain highlights or specific players from the National Basketball Association’s golden era that have ignited a recent argument by the water cooler.
On 08/24, we’re (obviously) honoring Mamba Day with a selection of hand-picked moments from Kobe’s exceptional career. The scenes below might not be the most obvious highlights and they’re neither just a summary of the highest peaks of Bryant’s run with the purple and gold. Instead, they are a bunch of personal favorites that make us reminisce about some of the unique characteristics that make up the complex character that is be forever beloved Kobe Bryant. We miss you, Mamba!
Oh my goodness, number 8!
A true favorite at BSTN HQ that may or may not have been (quite poorly) re-enacted around the water cooler this week is this display of offensive brilliance on a fast break against the Nuggets in 2003. This clip is the epitome of the realization that when the Mamba was feeling it offensively, there was nothing your could do. Absolutely nothing.
Re-united with Shaq
Playing on the same team with Shaq for the first time since their mudslinging split in LA-LA-land, the 2009 NBA All Star Game in Phoenix marked a special time in the relationship between the two megastars. Not only did they take home co-MVP honors but the little-known fact that Kobe let Shaq (and his son) take home the trophy went a long way in their reconciliation.
The Amnesty Game
Kobe’s iconic 81-point game against the Toronto Raptors would have been Captain Obvious’ choice here. However, the performance the Mamba put on in Dallas, after Mavs’ owner Mark Cuban suggested the Lakers might use their amnesty provision on Bryant, might be an equally suitable example of his scoring dominance eventhough it garnered less media attention long-term … primarily because if only happened in three quarters of play.
Slam Dunk Contest
During the NBA’s 50th season, the stage was set on the league’s biggest platform. And young Kobe was here for it all. The walk, the swagger, the oozing of self-confidence, the auspicious potential bare for everyone to see. From the shooting shirt to the adidas Feet You Wear kicks, this version of the young phenom was a sight to be seen.
From limited-edition collectibles to a comprehensive selection of premium authentic replica jerseys by Mitchell & Ness, BSTN has go you covered for all your Mamba Day memorabilia.
