Kyrie Irving is making his 7th playoff appearance this season. The 13-year NBA vet has a marked consistency when it comes to performances and an unquenchable drive which makes him strive for more to this day. However, the former Rookie of the Year had this discipline instilled in him from the very beginning of his career. Although a particular encounter with Kobe Bryant may have further strengthened Kai for his career ahead.

Back in 2012, Irving was part of a roster that faced Team USA for training camp. Bryant led that team and a particular video when Irving challenged him for a one-on-one went viral at that time. Mamba appreciated the fearlessness in Kai, and their relationship blossomed much further after that.

Dallas Mavericks GM Nico Harrison, a former Nike executive, was also very close to Kobe before his tragic passing. According to a recent Andscape interview, “Bryant’s big brother-little brother relationship with Irving was known” to Harrison.

“They had a really good relationship. It started with a lot of playful banter that you see they play on now on videos on Instagram where Kyrie challenged him. But, also, Kyrie spent a lot of time picking his brain. Kyrie is one of those people that wants to be the best. So, he’d pick his brain,” said the Mavs GM.

He further attested that “Kobe had a lot of respect for him, so their relationship developed into a real relationship. It started off maybe mentor-mentee and then developed into a real bond.” So, in a sense, Irving bears a cross of greatness, all stemming from his fearless approach to the game. 

Kobe got the last laugh at Kyrie Irving

Kai being brave enough to challenge the greatest competitor the NBA has ever seen is commendable. However, what happened after the challenge just accentuates the legend of the Black Mamba. In the clip of Irving challenging Bryant, he’s saying “You have to guard. You have to guard! You’re not going to lock me up! You’re not going to lock me up.” The following season, Mamba took him up on the challenge.

The Lakers clashed with the Cavaliers in Cleveland. As the game teetered back and forth, the Cavaliers surged ahead in the second half. The pivotal moment arrived midway through the third quarter: a highly anticipated showdown between Irving and Bryant.

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In this electrifying game, Mamba’s defensive genius took center stage, overshadowing Kai’s burgeoning talent. Despite Irving’s remarkable growth in ball-handling skills over time, Bryant’s mastery prevailed.