Kobe Bryant’s debut in the 1998 All-Star game is remembered for his duel with Michael Jordan. While most enjoyed his willingness to take on the best player in the world, reigning NBA MVP Karl Malone was not pleased. Bryant waved off Malone during a play, and Malone took offense to this. Bryant was unbothered by Malone’s comments and stated that he only waved him off to prove himself against Jordan. Six years later, an incident involving Bryant’s wife, Vanessa, and Malone soured their relationship even more. However, their beef eventually fizzled out as they never crossed paths again.