Kobe Bryant was one of the most athletically gifted athletes in the NBA. His incredible physique and athleticism allowed him to drop some of the greatest dunk highlights ever. The Lakers legend was also the winner of the Slam Dunk Contest champion during his rookie year in 1997. However, a young LeBron James’ dunking abilities were enough to convince Kobe about James’ potential to be as great as him.

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Even entering his 20th season, LeBron maintains his incredible athletic abilities to provide some of the most insane dunking highlights. LeBron James’ youthful athleticism, even at 38, was evident in his 2022-23 NBA season performances.

Kobe Bryant once appreciated LeBron James’ crazy 44-inch vertical while dunking

Kobe Bryant had an incredible appreciation for LeBron James, whom he considered his younger brother. Since he was a high schooler, James loved pulling flashy dunks in almost all his games. He was also an impossible player to be shaken while on offense.

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Kobe, in an ESPN interview from 2009 alongside LeBron, admitted that he was impressed by James’ 44-inch vertical. For Kobe, LeBron seemed like jumping off a trampoline with one leg while trying to dunk. Here is a clip of the interview, uploaded by LeBron History. 

“He takes off like he’s jumping off a trampoline off one leg. It’s the most ridiculous one lef take-off I’ve ever seen. It’s crazy.” 

LeBron James’ crazy vertical has even helped him defensively, as much as it adds to its offensive credential. James is often acknowledged for some of the craziest shot blocks, including ones by some of the best sharpshooters in the league. Bron’s athletic prowess has mesmerized people for nearly a quarter of a century, dating back to his high school days. He is still seen as fit as many players in their prime, thanks to his $1.5 million fitness regimen.

LeBron spends an ample amount of time and money in keeping his athleticism at its peak

LeBron James’ gifted athleticism is not something that he has achieved overnight. To keep up with the physical requirements of the league, Bron spends around $1 million annually on workout equipment, dieticians, proper food and supplements, chefs, and trainers. This is one of the very reasons why we continue to see his displays of athleticism, even at the age of 38.

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LeBron James’ fitness regimen also helps him remain injury free at his current age. Although James did have some injury woes following the All-Star weekend last season, he did not take much time to recover and was present right when his team required him during the post-season playoffs.

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