Basketball is an elegant game. One comprised of angles, inches, trajectory, momentum, a game based on growth and evolution. In this maddeningly beautiful game, there is perhaps no one who has taken this sport to the next level, and bequeathed upon us a true artform, than Kobe Bryant. His footwork, his anticipation, his knowledge of the game is unparalleled in the modern league. No one comes into a game as prepared as him. No one pushes as hard as him. And no one continues to learn as much about the game as him. It is an obsession. A competitive drive to get better, to get smarter, to become the very best. The Black Mamba said it best, “These young guys are playing checkers. I’m out there playing chess.” The only question left to ask is whether your queen is safe. Checkmate.
