i think it is fair to compare them. true, they did not play at the same era but the times were not too far off. Both are similar in height and play same position. Michael too like Kobe, initially, was written off as too selfish. His 62 points against celtics was great but Chicago lost making may to think if he would ever win a championship. See the similarities? Well, here is were the commonalities end. Kobe has won more titles (3) than what Micheal could accomplish in his early years. yet, MJ comes on top, in my opinion. Saw both of them play. MJ had Pippen as his side kick. Kobe was Shaq's side kick. Saw Bulls win 3 straight and MJ retired.. Also saw Kobe win 3 consequtive. At the end of the day, MJ won 6 championships. I would like to see Kobe win 3 more, but i don't think it will happen. What say you? For stat minded people, here are some glaring facts: Kobe's career stats: PPG: 23.9 (because he started early and for the first 3 years averaged less than 20) as a starter he averages 26.4. REBOUNDs Per Game: 5.1 Assists per game: 4.5 FG%: .452 (has never been a .50% shooter in his career) 3pt%: 33.5 steals per game: 1.5 Rings: 3 Regular Season MVP: 0 :-( Finals MVP: 0 :-( All Star MVP: 1 Now King MJ's stat (just compare) PPG:30.1 Rebonds:6.2 Assists:5.3 FG%: .497 (.50% career shooter prior to joining the Wizards) Steals:2.345 3 pt%:32.7 Rings: 6 Regular Season MVP: 5 Finals MVP: 6 All Star MVP: 3 Rookie of the year 1985. other facts that humbles any other player let alone Kobe: 10 All-Nba first team(kobe:4) 9 time All-Defensive First Team (kobe: 4). 40+ PPG in regular season: Kobe: 69 MJ: 173 (wow).... 50+ PPG in regular season: MJ: 30 KOBE: 13 Those who think KOBE is better want more? I don't have the playoff numbers but, they too will just iterate my point. Those who say Kobe is better than MJ either did not see MJ play or are just not willing to look at the facts. Those who think the comparison cannot be made are just hesitating and unwilling to look at the facts. or they could be intimidated by MJ's number and honors that tower over Kobe's. Comparison between Chemberlin and Kobe may be unfair.. Comparison between Chemberlin and Shaq may be unfair but Kobe and MJ? Bring it on Kobe fans.. Nothing against Kobe, but ain't near the great one, HIS AIRNESS, atleast, not yet!