Luka Doncic wasn’t taking ‘No’ for an answer tonight. The result was a brilliant game that saw him overthrow Joel Embiid‘s 70 points with 73 of his own. The historic night saw him joining the ranks of NBA greats like Wilt Chamberlain, Kobe Bryant, and David Thompson. And to make the night extra special, it happened on the Black Mamba’s death anniversary.

While it’s a bittersweet occasion, Doncic still feels the pride at being on par with the late Lakers legend. Talking to the media after the game, Doncic gets emotional when asked about the same. “It’s amazing man! It’s very special … I wish he was here.”

The two have a history going back to 2018, when Doncic spent the summer training with Kobe Bryant. Fresh off from being the EuroLeague champion and MVP, there was tremendous pressure and expectations from the young European phenom. With so much riding on his back, Luka’s decision to master the “Mamba mentality” was definitely the right move.

The very next year, there was another incident that showed just how much the workout session brought the 5x champion and future Dallas superstar closer.

Kobe Bryant and Luka Doncic moments

It was the last month of 2019 and Dallas was battling the Lakers. There was one particular Purple & Gold enthusiast who was determined to upset the Mavs rising star, Luka Doncic, during the game. Whenever Doncic came close to where he was sitting, this fan would talk trash in his native tongue. And when he just about had enough, Luka turned around to find Kobe Bryant sitting there with a cheeky smile.

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LA won that game 108-95, but Luka will forever keep that memory etched into his mind. After all, just 28 days later, Bryant and his daughter Gianna, along with several passengers, died in a helicopter crash. Fast forward to 2022, and Doncic made an appearance on The Old Man and The Three podcast.

Lakers’ VP Reveals Gianna Wanted to Study Luka Doncic with Kobe Bryant

JJ Reddick, along with many other topics, discussed his relationship with Kobe. Luka Doncic proceeded to reveal some advice that the former 2x Finals MVP had for him. “Watch out, they’re gonna come after you because you’re from Europe. They’re gonna try to go after you.” And Doncic affirms that Bryant was indeed right.

To have such a relationship with one of the greatest basketball players ever is something many only dream about. And for him to value your friendship just as much, speaks volumes about the respect and admiration Kobe had for Luka Doncic. As well as the belief he had in Luka’s talent!

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