The popular image and legacy of Kobe Bryant might be a lot different if Michael Jordan wasn't afraid of snakes.

Michael Jordan was the original “Black Mamba,” according to a new story in ESPN.

Back in 2002, Nike created a whole campaign around Michael Jordan and the black mamba, only to learn MJ hates snakes ...

The Black Mamba was created for Michael Jordan before Kobe Bryant made it legendary originally appeared on The Sporting News.

Like any TV show, we like to get invested in the characters. That’s why in the NBA, we follow every off-court piece of drama with as much fervor as what happens on the hardwood.

How Michael Jordan’s secret fear of snakes paved the way for Kobe Bryant to adopt and define the iconic Black Mamba persona.

Michael Jordan was originally pitched “Black Mamba” nickname during Air Jordan 19 campaign before it became synonymous with ...

In late 2002, Nike began creating a global campaign featuring the black mamba -- and presented it to an NBA superstar. That star was not Kobe Bryant.

Few snakes have a reputation as dazzling as the Black Mamba. In films, books, and legends, it is considered a deadly icon, perhaps the most dangerous snake in the world. Its name alone instills fear ...