Did Kobe Bryant really need to win this year's NBA Finals to show that he is a true champion? Probably not. That's like saying did Michael Jordan have to win without Scottie Pippen to show that he was a true champion.
The only reason people were questioning Kobe's championship caliber of play, is because when Kobe did win those titles, he was the second banana behind Shaquille O'Neal. Jordan was always the primary and focal point of the Chicago Bulls offense.
For the past several years Kobe has been "The Man" for the L.A. Lakers and didn't get the ring without Shaq, until last night.
Bryant showed what a true leader is and has come into his own at the age of 30 and showing why he is the best player in the NBA today.
Bryant wins his fourth title and is officially mentioned as one of the greatest players to ever pick up a basketball. Kobe doesn't need to be compared to Jordan, because he's in his own category, as one of the top 10 best ever.
The monkey is off his back and no longer an issue when it comes to media questioning his leadership and ability to lead a team to a championship.
Kobe is now a great player without O'Neal and if he plays is cards and body right, could be winning even more titles for the next 8 to 10 years. At just 30 Bryant is in the prime of his career and has at least another 6 great years in him to be one of the best players in the game.
He could even break Kareem's record for most career points scored too. But that's for another day. Right now the Zoo is calling looking for that monkey to finally put it away.