Derek Fisher

While the other two names on this list are worthy, it’s Derek Fisher who should be given the opportunity. Name one player who has been there with Kobe through the ups and downs. Name one player who has as many rings as Kobe, and only with Kobe. While Jackson was there as the coach, it was Fisher who actually reeled Kobe in when he went off the reservation. Without Fisher, Kobe won no rings. With Fisher, he took home five.

When Fisher left the Los Angeles Lakers, Kobe thrived but he didn’t win. Fisher returned and the winning resumed. Yes, there was Pau Gasol and Lamar Odom right beside him but Fisher was the catalyst of those championship teams. He and Kobe’s friendship is often ignored for the bigger names but friends they were. They came in the league together, lost together, and won together. He was indeed Kobe’s best friend in the NBA. So, aside from his wife Vanessa, it should be Fisher who introduces Kobe Bryant into the Basketball Hall of Fame.