Kobe was to the NBA as _____________ is to the NFL, MLB, NHL.

Rick

This is is prob comparable to when junior Seau passed away... or think if  peyton manning, or derek Jeter passed away... that would be a comparison,

Guys night Lab (Jesus)

Only took this side because it didn't have any votes. Neither of the other two sports should have votes either. NO athlete would compare to the global adulation Kobe has received making the question a moot point.

Stu Schreiber

If Derrick Jeter we’re flying with his child and tragically crashed, this would be comparable in that way.Kobe was loved by most, considered a great champion not only with the Laker fan base, but known for intensity, hard work, classy, smart, worldly, etc. Kobe is Tom Brady, Derrick Jeter, the biggest star, the most titles, the life after the game, he was truly the top guy!

Scott Kaplan

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Aaron Rodgers. He began his career largely considered the "sidekick" to Shaq, similar to how Aaron Rodgers began his career as the backup to Brett Favre. Once they got their chance to lead their team, they were able to claim numerous individual accolades (Rodgers 2X MVP, Bryant 1X MVP). Both players had a lot to prove after the departures of legends (Shaq and Favre) before going on to lead their teams to titles (Rodgers in 2011, Bryant in 2009 and 2010). Both were known for making spectacular plays throughout their career and breaking numerous records. However, despite being recognized as their league's best players, they were often overshadowed by other future Hall-of-Famers. Bryant's career largely coincided with the rise of LeBron James who quickly became the NBA's most popular player. Rodgers' career has reached incredible heights, but was largely overshadowed by Tom Brady, who won three Super Bowls during Rodgers' time as a starter. Both have had alleged conflicts with coaches named Mike (Rodgers with Mike McCarthy, Bryant with Mike Brown). There hasn't ever been a player like Kobe in any sport, but if you have to make the comparison, Rodgers seems ideal.