Kobe Bryant was an inspirational figure for several players that are dominating the NBA today. Kobe entered the league in 1996 and was able to become a superstar in the league with his incredible play. Bryant in his later years, became a mentor for many players, including Kyrie Irving.
Kyrie Irving recently spoke about the impact Kobe Bryant had on his life and his career. He spoke about Kobe being an inspiration to him on and off the court, and how much he misses Bryant. He promised to keep playing at the highest level and being his best self in order to honor the memory of the Black Mamba.
“Kobe as the man was VERY inspirational, very loving, and very compassionate. Always had an open heart for those who wanted to follow his knowledge and wisdom that he always wanted to pass on what he learned. I was just more than grateful that I could have him as a mentor for as many years that I did — shout out to Vanesa and all the girls…
“They’re very strong so I have to be strong as well and we just want to carry his legacy forward. That’s really what it’s about so, him as a spirit is… ETERNAL. He’s everywhere right now and Gigi’s everywhere right now and all the people that transitioned that day helped us out”.
“So, they’re never far; so it’s constant remembrance, but I’m VERY grateful that I got to spend time with him and learn from him as a man. As a player, I can go on and on, so shout out to ‘Bean’ Bryant… I love you more than life itself and miss you a lot.”
Irving clearly looked up to Kobe Bryant, and took a lot of inspiration from him, on and off the court. Kobe and Irving didn’t play against each other a lot, as both players were in different conferences. But he clearly enjoyed the time he got to spend with him.
Kobe Bryant Was A Mentor To Kyrie Irving
Kobe Bryant got to spend time with some of the younger players in the NBA during his time representing Team USA at the 2008 and 2012 Olympics. Players like Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis benefitted greatly from their time spent with Kobe during that camp. Irving and Kobe even played a game of 1 on 1 against each other, where both players talked trash against each other.
Irving himself found success in the NBA, becoming a multiple-time All-Star, and winning an NBA championship in 2016. Much like Kobe Bryant in the early 2000s, Irving was the secondary superstar on his championship team but was equally as important to that championship win.
Irving and Bryant may not have spent a lot of time together, but it is clear that Irving valued the little time they did spend playing with and against each other.
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