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Kobe calls Tony Allen his 'best defender,' via signed shoes

Kobe Bryant honors Tony Allen for his tough defense with signed shoes

Before Kobe Bryant walks away from basketball after 20 years, he wants to salute the “best defender he ever faced.”

Before Kobe Bryant walks away from basketball after 20 years, he wants to salute the “best defender he ever faced.”

After the Grizzlies’ 112–95 win over the Lakers on Friday night, Kobe gave Allen a signed pair of sneakers, and addressed the autograph to the best defender he’s ever gone up against.

Allen, who loves to let the world know he’s been selected first team all-defense, received his third nod last season.

• SI Roundtable: Does Kobe Bryant make our NBA alltime starting five?

The Grizzlies and Lakers will play once again on March 22 in Los Angeles.

– Kenny Ducey

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