In his new book, Phil Jackson compares Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant.
Let's just say, "Eleven Rings: The Soul of Success" will likely not be on Kobe's summer reading list.
Jackson writes:
"One of the biggest differences between the two stars from my perspective was Michael's superior skills as a leader. Though at times he could be hard on his teammates, Michael was masterful at controlling the emotional climate of the team with the power of his presence. Kobe had a long way to go before he could make that claim. He talked a good game, but he'd yet to experience the cold truth of leadership in his bones, as Michael had in his bones."
Jackson, who won six NBA titles with Jordan and five with Bryant, wrote this about their defense:
"No question, Michael was a tougher, more intimidating defender. He could break through virtually any screen and shut down almost any player with his intense, laser-focused style of defense."
In comparing their offense, Jackson writes:
"Jordan was also more naturally inclined to let the game come to him and not overplay his hand, whereas Kobe tends to force the action, especially when the game isn't going his way. When his shot is off, Kobe will pound away relentlessly until his luck turns. Michael, on the other hand, would shift his attention to defense or passing or setting screens to help the team win the game."
