- Pau Gasol praised Kobe Bryant during his Hall of Fame induction speech
- Gasol said Bryant taught him what it took to win at the highest level
- Gasol stated Bryant showed him how hard you need to work and the mentality you need to have to be the best
Pau Gasol and Kobe Bryant enjoyed tremendous success together on the court, winning back-to-back titles with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2009 and 2010. Not only were they great on the court, but the two formed a very special bond off it as well, during their time together as teammates.
Gasol was inducted into the Hall of Fame on Saturday night, and during his speech, the Spaniard paid tribute to Bryant. He thanked Kobe for everything that he taught him during their time together.
“That’s where (Lakers) I got to know the person who elevated my game like no other,” Gasol said. “Who taught me what it took to win at the highest level. Who showed me how hard you have to work and the mentality you needed to have in order to be the best. The commitment you had to make, what it meant, and what it took to be a leader, Kobe.
“I wouldn’t be here without you brother,” Gasol continued. “I wish more than anything that you and Gigi were here today with us. I miss you and love you.”
(starts at 0:28 mark):
Teammates. Friends. Brothers.
Pau Gasol and Kobe Bryant. @Hoophall inductees.
📺: The #23HoopClass Enshrinement is live on NBA TV pic.twitter.com/lGWKjKwBYS
— NBA (@NBA) August 13, 2023
We all do wish they were still here. Kobe and Gigi tragically passed away in 2020, but they’ll live forever in the hearts and minds of many across the globe. Gasol appreciates everything that Bryant did for him, and there perhaps would have been no one more proud to see the Spaniard get inducted into the Hall than Kobe.
Pau Gasol Explained Why He And Kobe Got Along On And Off The Court
Kobe wasn’t exactly considered the greatest teammate for much of his career, but he and Pau got along pretty well. Gasol once explained why his relationship with Bryant worked well on and off the court.
“We just complimented each other well,” Gasol said. “He brought a unique edge, work ethic, and dedication to the game. He appreciated my IQ, my understanding of the game, my ability to catch the ball, having good hands, and being able to make plays for myself and my teammates. It kind of balanced what he brought to the table. I didn’t come here to get into any kind of battle with him. I just wanted to help the team win championships.”
They just were the perfect match, and the acquisition of Gasol in 2008 remains one of the best moves that the Lakers have made in recent history. While Kobe certainly did a lot for Pau, Gasol’s arrival did save Bryant’s last act as a Laker as well, as they wouldn’t have won those two championships without him.
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