- Kobe Bryant’s candid advice fueled Irving’s determination in the 2016 NBA Finals
- Irving recalls Bryant’s motivational impact in a recent Twitch stream
- The heated Bryant-Irving dinner became a turning point for the Cavaliers’ championship aspiration
Kyrie Irving shared a personal and poignant memory involving the late Kobe Bryant that shed new light on the motivational force that Bryant was behind the scenes during the 2016 NBA season. In a recent Twitch stream, where he was playing NBA2K, Irving opened up about the golden piece of advice he received from Bryant, a figure he reverently refers to as his hero:
“He was like, ‘Man, I think Golden State’s definitely going to win the Championship this year.’ Like Bro can you imagine Kobe saying this? This is like my hero, bro.”
“He said, ‘Nah man, they got a really good team this year, I just feel like you guys match up well against them, but I just feel like they have a good chance.'”
“He was like, ‘Man, Steph is killing this year.’ I’m like, ‘Man, I’m not trying to hear about Steph, right now, bro. I respect the sh*t out of Steph, but I’m going smack at him.'” (4:20)
The setting was a casual meet-up in LA, a night before a game. The atmosphere soon took a charged turn as Bryant, in his straightforward manner, asserted that the Golden State Warriors were bound to win the championship that year. Irving couldn’t believe what he was hearing. This was Kobe Bryant, his hero, seemingly betting against him.
The conversation swayed towards the impeccable form of Stephen Curry, then reigning MVP, who was leading the Warriors with an awe-inspiring performance season-long. Bryant acknowledged the strong team dynamics of the Warriors, emphasizing their favorable chance at securing the title.
This heated conversation ignited a fire in Irving, fueling a determination that would soon carve itself into the annals of NBA history. The 2016 NBA Finals witnessed the Cleveland Cavaliers overturn a 3-1 deficit against the Golden State Warriors, a victory sealed with Irving’s game-winning 3-pointer over Steph Curry in Game 7, a shot that has since become legendary.
Irving attributes a significant part of this dogged determination to that evening with Kobe Bryant. The candid conversation and Bryant’s ‘Kobe-way’ of instilling motivation in him turned out to be a cornerstone in Irving’s approach to the finals.
Kyrie Irving Called Kobe Bryant After Winning 2016 NBA Championship
In a heartfelt revelation, Kyrie Irving disclosed that one of the first things he did after clinching the 2016 NBA championship with the Cleveland Cavaliers was to FaceTime Kobe Bryant. This gesture was not just a celebration but also an acknowledgment of the immense respect Irving harbors for the NBA legend who has experienced the pinnacle of victory five times in his illustrious career.
This interaction was more than a casual conversation between two phenomenal athletes; it marked the recognition of Bryant’s mentorship, a relationship that began fostering when they met at Team USA’s camp in preparation for the 2012 London Olympics. Even amidst the high-pressure environment of the finals, Bryant kept a respectful distance, allowing Irving to carve his own path, yet remaining available for guidance, portraying a camaraderie grounded in mutual respect and understanding.
Irving’s admiration for Bryant soared to new heights with the realization of the sheer difficulty in clinching even a single title. The act of reaching out to Bryant showcases a bond transcending the boundaries of teams and generations. It also highlighted Bryant’s unwavering support, and keenness to guide young talents even after retirement, a testament to his deep-rooted love for basketball and his commitment to nurturing the next generation of champions.
Kobe Bryant Said He Would Destroy Kyrie Irving In A 1-On-1 Game
In a friendly yet candid assertion, the legendary Kobe Bryant was completely confident in his superior one-on-one skills over Kyrie Irving, a player he shared a deep bond and mutual respect. This bold claim came during a 2013 ESPN interview where Bryant didn’t hesitate to assert that he would “destroy” Irving were they to face off on the court alone.
The camaraderie between the two stars was undeniably close; their relationship was nurtured through shared experiences such as their tenure as Team USA teammates during the victorious 2012 Olympics in London. Irving, who notably looks up to Bryant, has even molded several facets of his game after the seasoned veteran. Their playful yet fierce competitive spirits often led them to indulge in trash talk over hypothetical one-on-one outcomes, illustrating a mentorship colored with humor and challenge.
Despite the bravado, Bryant’s affection for Irving was evident as he recounted with a broad smile and laughter that the matchup would indeed be “fun.” Reflecting on his historical one-on-one triumphs, including over greats like Reggie Miller and Grant Hill, Bryant exuded an unyielding belief in his abilities.
While this revelation adds a humorous and warm layer to the duo’s friendship, it also starkly showcases Bryant’s never-diminishing fiery competitiveness and sheer confidence in his basketball prowess. It paints a vivid picture of a relationship forged in the crucible of competition, yet softened by mutual respect and the shared joy of the game.
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