NBA: Kobe Bryant May Join MJ's Elite Company

Kobe Bryant is arguably the league's best player. A three time NBA champion, league MVP, and holder of the second highest single game scoring record in history are just a few of Bryant's vast accomplishments since he entered the league out of high school prior to the 1996-1997 season.

That is not to say the journey Bryant has taken since entering the league has been speed bump-free.

His rookie season saw Bryant play in only fifteen minutes per game, scoring roughly eight points a contest. Bryant has also been charged with rape and even though the charges were eventually dropped, Bryant's adultery offense put a black mark on his permanent record in the minds of fans.

However, the past is the past and Bryant may be in elite company by summer's end.

After leading the trade-enhanced Los Angeles Lakers to the one seed in the Western Conference and his first MVP award, the Lakers guard has led his team to the NBA Finals after defeating the San Antonio Spurs in five games.

MVP? Check.

Bryant's Lakers are seemingly the best team in the league's best conference. They will face either the Boston Celtics or Detroit Pistons in the Finals as Bryant will be looking for ring number four.

Potential NBA Champ? Check.

Finally, the legend is playing for Team USA this summer in the Beijing Olympics. A gold medal added to the resume of Bryant would not only cement his status as a legend, but would make him a true "world's champion."

Olympic Gold Medal Possibility? Check.

Michael Jordan is the only other player in NBA history to have accomplished the "Big Three."  He did so in his first full season back from retirement in 1995-1996. Bryant's 07-08 is even more similar to MJ's '95-'96.

Both made the All-NBA First Team, All-NBA Defensive Team, and Bryant would most likely win the Finals MVP if his Lakers are able to defeat the Eastern Conference representative.

Kobe Bryant is closing in on legendary status, and it's time to tune in.