Bryant won over New Orleans guard Chris Paul, garnering 1,100 points to Paul’s 894 and, more telling, 82 first-place votes to only 28 for Paul from 126 media members. Boston forward Kevin Garnett finished third (670 points, 15 first-place votes) and Cleveland forward LeBron James was fourth (438 points, one first-place vote).

Bryant thanked his family, teammates and then recounted an unpredictable ride that started with wanting to leave the Lakers last May. “I get goose bumps thinking about it,” he said. “It’s been a long ride, coming here at 17 years old and standing here almost 30. I’m an old man. I have tendinitis. I’ve been through all the wars. I’m very proud to represent this organization, to represent this city.”

I think a lot of people would agree with me that Kobe Bryant is undeniably the most talented player in NBA right now. He truly deserves this award.