While Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant stand as the two best shooting guards in NBA history, many rank Dwyane Wade right behind them. Wade is in his 16th season, which he announced would be the last of his career.
While Bryant’s ascension largely came as Jordan was entering the twilight of his career, Bryant and Wade got to match up several times during the peak years. From it stemmed a healthy competition and mutual respect.
Wade idolized Bryant as a young child growing up in Chicago and during his time at Marquette. He’s previously explained the importance Bryant had on his career, and losing ‘a little piece’ of himself when the five-time champion retired.