Kobe Bryant tells it like it is, and if you can then he’ll respect you.
The Black Mamba has never bought into the idea of one particular defender being able to shut him down, but he acknowledges that one NBA two-guard has always stepped up to the plate during their match-ups.
In an interview with TNT’s Ernie Johnson, Bryant was asked what player came the closest to being “the Kobe-stopper” during his glorious 20-year career.
The Grizzlies' Tony Allen got the honor.
“Individually, it was always Tony Allen,” Bryant said without hesitation. “Always.”
Bryant has always lauded Allen for never asking for help while defending him.
By Glenn Erby
