Ex-Laker Reveals Key Difference Between Kobe Bryant, LeBr...

By Justin Grasso

Contributing Sports Writer

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LeBron James is in the midst of year eight for the Los Angeles Lakers.

During his early Laker days, he became the latest NBA superstar to hoist the Larry O’Brien trophy while donning a Lakers uniform. He followed up on Kobe Bryant’s championship-winning era.

Current Cleveland Cavaliers forward Larry Nance Jr. has had the opportunity to play with both Lakers stars throughout his career. As a former LA first-rounder, Nance joined the Lakers in 2015, when Kobe was wrapping up his two-decade run, which landed him in the Hall of Fame.

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Nance’s second NBA franchise was the Cleveland Cavaliers, the team that LeBron starred for over the course of two stints. Playing with both legends, Nance recently detailed the difference between the two players from a leadership standpoint on ‘Ball In The Family.’

“Kobe was more so like a force when he walked in,” Nance explained. “When he walked in, you felt that he was there. Like my shoes need to be tied, let me get my locker clean. I can’t be the one that gets singled out today.”

Bryant’s leadership style was famously tough. The “Mamba Mentality” became a major part of his persona as a player, and Bryant’s teammates had to have thick skin in order to play with him. Hard coaching or leading might not work well with everybody, but a young Nance knew it had to be respected.

“He ran a tight ship, which obviously worked to the tune of five rings,” he added.

As far as LeBron goes, he seems to be less of a war general and more of a senior-level captain. While James has had plenty of individual and team success throughout the years, he seems much more laid back. Nance’s statement sort of confirms that much.

“Bron is more so one of the guys,” Nance explained. “He’s a big kid, which endears you to him even more.”

When it comes to leadership styles, there’s no right or wrong as long as the ultimate goal is achieved. Bryant had plenty of success in all areas, winning five titles and an MVP award, to go with his many All-Star and All-NBA nods.

James has four NBA Championships (and is chasing more) and four MVPs, along with over 20 All-Star nods and many All-NBA acknowledgements. Clearly, the “big bro” approach didn’t hold him back.

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