I saw a post saying that it’s been 28 years since Kobe and MJ faced off for their first game.
MJ was a dominant force at that time. It was 1997. Remember the streak? 1991, 92, 93 NBA championships. Leaves for 1+ year to play baseball. Comes back and wins championships in 96, 97, 98. He’s older, stronger, more in the fadeaway era than the insane dunks era. But MJ is still very much in his prime.
He’s also playing with a dislocated index finger.
Kobe was a young gun, fresh in the league, minimal NBA experience. He’s actually coming off the bench, as a 19-year old, green, but determined. You see it in his eyes.
He’s trying to prove himself.
The game wasn’t a playoff, championship, or anything like that. A simple regular season game. Barely of consequence.
But the meeting of the two men was so much more…
I’d equate it to a heavyweight fight. A young Tyson vs. an old Holyfield.
In hockey, a young McDavid vs. an older Crosby.
Someone called it: Air vs. Heir.
Here’s how the game went down:
Kobe ended with 33 points in 29 mins played off the bench.
MJ ended with 36 points and the win.
The old goat beat the young goat.
Why does this matter to anyone?
Other than a few old washed up athletes, no one cares. But I care. As a fan of both, I saw something in that game. And now as a grown man, I see more in that game.
From the young goat’s perspective, this is the first time you go toe-to-toe against your childhood icon. It’s something you’ll never forget. Meeting them is one thing; going against them in competition is another thing entirely.
From the old goat’s perspective, the first time the old goat gets challenged by a younger goat, he rejoices. Someone is here to challenge me! And he remembers. You see it in Jordan’s eyes. He’ll rejoice and remember this guy.
Learn from your mentors.
But never be afraid to take them head-on.
When they leave the stage, it may be your time to step up.
Omer Redden 