Michael Jordan is probably the greatest basketball player to ever step on the court, and just watching him was an inspiration to millions. When Jordan lined up against the Lakers for the Wizards in 2003, he uttered some words in a young Kobe Bryant’s ears that stuck with him forever. Bryant had looked up to Jordan, but now he had something to prove.

Michael Jordan’s Trash Talk To Kobe That The Lakers Legend Never Forgot

A Crushing Blow

Bryant was a huge fan of Jordan, as was pretty much anyone who ever got to see him play. While most people never got to be in the same room as Jordan, Bryant actually played against the living legend. When the two ballers faced off against each other in 2003, Jordan told Kobe that he might be able to wear his shoes, but he could “never fill them.” That was a crushing blow for Kobe, to hear his hero trash talk him this way.

Keeping Quiet

Bryant didn’t take Jordan’s comments lightly. He dwelled on the words that Jordan spoke to him, and he refused to speak to his teammates after the game was over. Bryant continued giving his teammates the silent treatment for two weeks as Jordan’s words continued to ring in his ears.

Michael Jordan’s Trash Talk To Kobe That The Lakers Legend Never Forgot

Trying To Prove Him Wrong

The next time the Lakers played the Wizards Bryant made sure that Jordan took notice of him and tore up the court. The young Black Mamba scored 55 points in that game, which was just one of his many great games that year.

However, while Bryant won a total of five NBA championships, it’s hard to argue that he did manage to fill Jordan’s shoes. What Bryant did to over his career was prove he belonged on the same court as the legend, and he had his own shoes to wear anyway.