In regards to player's originality.
Much like Bruce Lee, who invented his own style of martial arts by being a student of different Martial arts schools. Kobe is very similar to bruce lee, in a way that he picks up moves from different players. NOT JUST MICHAEL's. He is a student of the game. I've seen dozens of highlights where kobe uses Tim Hardaway's killer crossover. I've seen him use T-mac's hesitation dribble and pull-up jumper. Hakeem's dream shake. The best thing about kobe is he also develops his own moves. I've always thought that every move in basketball has already been explored until I've seen him do just about anything. From left hand scoops, left hand tear drop? Left hand hook shots? Using the pivot for a very awkward spin?
even Michael Jordan himself said that without Oscar Robertson, he would not have developed the kind of game and skill that has made him so successful. It is all about passing the torch to the next generation.