Kawhi Leonard’s bold post-title claim resurfaces as he once declared himself better than Kobe Bryant after 2019 Finals

Kawhi Leonard’s 2019 playoff run delivered the Toronto Raptors their first NBA championship. The win also changed the perception of how Leonard viewed himself in the game’s all-time hierarchy.

Years later, a resurfaced locker-room belief from that title run has reignited debate across the NBA landscape. The claim is not coming from fans or analysts, but from inside the championship circle itself.The Raptors’ historic season brought an emotional weight to the team. Starting with the quiet confidence in the locker room and the raw celebrations on the floor, the environment allowed bold thoughts to surface. One of them placed Leonard in rare territory, measured directly against one of basketball’s most revered legends, Kobe Bryant.

Kawhi Leonard Kobe Bryant comparison resurfaces through VanVleet

Fred VanVleet, who was a key contributor to Toronto’s 2019 championship, recently shed light on Leonard’s mindset during that magical run. According to VanVleet, the idea that Leonard had surpassed Kobe Bryant was openly discussed after the title was secured. The belief was rooted in performance.“It was a conversation being had and the sentiment of it was when we won the championship was like ‘I’m better than Kobe.”

Leonard’s postseason supported that confidence. He delivered elite scoring, suffocating defense, and an unmatched calm under pressure. Toronto leaned on him every night, and he answered in every arena. The Finals MVP controlled the pace, dictated matchups, and made winning plays without spectacle.

Kawhi Leonard 2019 Finals legacy still echoes across Toronto

Inside the locker room, Raptors legend Wayne Embry watched history unfold with quiet reflection. At 82, Embry had seen championships before, but this one was certainly special.“At my age, any time you win a championship is special. I’ve been here before. But this is the finest,” he said. “Won as a player in ’68 — and ’71 in the front office. But nothing like this. The significance of winning in Toronto. And Canada. A whole country behind you. It’s just unbelievable.”Leonard embodied that significance on the floor. Arms raised, soaked in champagne, he made his own view clear as the celebration peaked.“I wanted to make history here. That's what I did,” Leonard said.That title ended a 26-year championship drought for Canada and capped one of the most complete playoff runs the league had seen. Also Read: New York Knicks end long trophy drought with stunning fourth-quarter comeback to win NBA Cup