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Draymond Green discusses Kobe Bryant's legacy with Shaquille O’Neal

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 20, 2026, 2:05 AM

Last updated Jul 20, 2026

Draymond Green discusses Kobe Bryant's legacy with Shaquille O’Neal

Summary

In a conversation with Shaquille O'Neal, Draymond Green addressed why Kobe Bryant is often left out of the GOAT debate. Green cited Bryant's shared success with O'Neal and the Lakers’ struggles after O'Neal's departure as factors shaping public perception. He noted that while Bryant had remarkable individual seasons, team success waned, especially as LeBron James ascended in the league. Green emphasized that these dynamics deserve more consideration regarding Bryant's legacy.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Green points to Bryant's partnership with O'Neal as a factor in public perception.
•Lakers' struggles post-O'Neal affected views on Bryant's greatness.
•Bryant had extraordinary individual performances despite team challenges.
•LeBron James' rise coincided with Bryant's perceived decline in prominence.
•Green advocates for greater recognition of Bryant in GOAT discussions.

Latest Updates

2:05 AMYahoo Sports — Shaquille O’Neal couldn’t believe Draymond Green’s honest take on Kobe’s legacy

What they're saying

"
Why isn’t Kobe Bryant mentioned as often in the GOAT debate? Draymond Green gave Shaquille O’Neal a candid answer, pointing to two key moments in Bryant’s career that he believes changed the conversation forever.
— Yahoo Sports

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