Kobe Bryant Once Defended LeBron James For Joining Miami Heat In 2010

LeBron James was perhaps the most hated player in the NBA when he joined the Miami Heat in 2010 after spending seven seasons with the Cleveland Cavaliers.

James drew criticism from just about everyone at the time except for one superstar: Kobe Bryant. During an interview with ESPN, Bryant defended James' decision to team with Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh.

"I think people need to lay off that kid, that's what I think," Bryant said. "I've got to know him pretty well during my time with the Olympic team and I think they just need to back up off him."

The move proved beneficial for James. He won two championships in four straight trips to the NBA Finals from 2010-14. It was arguably the best phase of his career, with James winning two regular season MVPs and two Finals MVPs.

HEAT-RELATED STORIES

Tyler Herro not interested in running it back? CLICK HERE

Christian Wood, Kelly Oubre are available if no Damian Lillard. CLICK HERE

The Heat should keep Jaime Jaquez out of Lillard trade talks. CLICK HERE

For a look at some of the latest Heat apparel. CLICK HERE

If you wanna bet on any games at @PrizePicks or PrizePicks.com, use our link and code. They will match your first bet for up to $100. Here's the code: PR-R1YOFY6

Shandel Richardson covers the Miami Heat for Inside The Heat.

TWITTER: @ShandelRich

Follow all of our Miami Heat coverage on Facebook here

Subscribe to our YouTube channel here

For any Heat or NBA questions, please email shandelrich@gmail.com