5. “Not bad for the 7th best player in the league.” – 2012, following a 48 point performance against the Phoenix Suns.
This quote exemplifies Kobe’s unending need for motivation. He took slight against an ESPN poll that ranked Bryant as the 7th best player in the NBA. This was two years removed from Kobe being named 2010 Finals MVP. Take a look at some of the highlights and see if you think 6 other players could have performed at this level.