Kobe Bryant and Raja Bell have disliked each other and verbally sparred in the media for years since Bell’s days as a member of the Phoenix Suns. Raja Bell has long been considered a strong defender of the leagues elite 2 guards, and well, we all know of Kobe Bryant’s offensive exploits. But the rivalry seemed to have cooled the past two seasons, until now.
Raja Bell was given the assignment to guard Kobe in this week’s Lakers-Jazz matchup. He did a fantastic job, but Kobe still went off for 40 points.
Huh?
How is it possible to defend someone well and they still got 40 points? Just ask Raja…
First, Bell weighed in. “If he’s going to take 31 shots to get 40, then that’s pretty much all you can do. Anyone shooting 31 shots should score 40.”
But as usual Bryant had his say as well. Being less pointed however giving Bell his due in the process…
“He can’t stop me. He knows that. But he’s good enough to make it interesting.”
Raja Bell isn’t exactly a fan favorite of the Lakers Nation ever since this rivalry started, culminating with Bell clotheslining Kobe in the playoffs a few years back.
These latest comments certainly won’t win him any favor among fans, but then again, I doubt he cares.
[Quotes via Salt Lake Tribune]
