Kobe Bryant scored 26 points against the Minnesota Timberwolves Sunday, and in the process moved past Michael Jordan to stand alone at third on the NBA's all time scoring list. Jordan logged 32,292 points in his legendary career.

Kobe Bryant Praises Teammates, Disputes Claim That He Has No Patience

Jordan was gregarious and complimentary to Bryant after the achievement.

"I congratulate Kobe on reaching this milestone," Jordan said, via a statement released by the Charlotte Hornets and picked up by USA Today. "He's obviously a great player, with a strong work ethic and has an equally strong passion for the game of basketball. I've enjoyed watching his game evolve over the years, and I look forward to seeing what he accomplishes next."

Bryant responded to Jordan's praise with respect. "He knows how much I've learned from him, from the other legends and him in particular."

Real recognizes real, in other words.

Although Kobe has one less championship ring than His Airness, he's finally found at least one category where he'll forever be on top. However, Bulls fans would probably argue that MJ did it in nearly 200 less games.

You can watch the historic moment when Bryant passed MJ below