The L.A. Times obtained an advance copy of the novel and revealed Jackson also said of Bryant: “When Kobe first joined the Lakers, he avoided fraternizing with his teammates. But his inclination to keep to himself shifted as he grew older. Increasingly, Kobe put more energy into getting to know the other players, especially when the team was on the road.”
According to The Times, Jackson also describer Jordan as “a tougher, more intimidating defender” capable of “shutting down almost any player with his laser-focused style of defense.”
Jackson added Bryant learned much from studying Jordan, including improving his defense to the point the team was able to use him as “our secret weapon.”
On the issue of each man’s uncanny scoring ability, Jackson raved: "Michael was more likely to break through his attackers with power and strength, while Kobe often tries to finesse his way through mass pileups, Michael was stronger, with bigger shoulders and a sturdier frame. He also had large hands that allowed him to control the ball better and make subtle fakes.”
Jackson also described Jordan as “more naturally inclined to let the game come to him and not overplay his hand, whereas Kobe tends to force the action, especially when the game isn't going his way. When his shot is off, Kobe will pound away relentlessly until his luck turns. Michael, on the other hand, would shift his attention to defense or passing or setting screens to help the team win the game," he wrote.
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