Atlanta Hawks star Trae Young has addressed recent comments made by an unnamed former NBA player who claimed he could replicate Kobe Bryant’s
iconic 81-point performance. Young, known for his scoring prowess and deep admiration for Bryant, dismissed the assertion as unrealistic, emphasizing the unparalleled nature of Bryant’s achievement.
Bryant’s 81-point game against the Toronto Raptors in 2006 remains one of the most remarkable feats in NBA history. Young highlighted the dedication, skill, and mental fortitude required to reach such a milestone, suggesting that it’s not something easily replicated, regardless of one’s confidence or past experience in the league.
Young’s connection to Bryant goes beyond professional respect; he shared a personal bond with the late Lakers legend and his daughter, Gianna. In a memorable tribute following their tragic passing in 2020, Young wore Bryant’s No. 8 jersey and delivered a standout performance, scoring 45 points on 24 shots and achieving a free-throw percentage of 81%—numbers symbolically linked to Bryant’s card.
This incident underscores the deep reverence current NBA players hold for Bryant’s legacy and the recognition that his extraordinary accomplishments set a standard that is challenging to match.
