Kobe Bryant and his influence on basketball will be forever remembered. Popularly known as ‘The Mamba’, Kobe’s work ethic and mentality were a source of inspiration for athletes and anyone in general.

Various NBA stars like Devin Booker, DeMar DeRozan, and Jayson Tatum are many of the stars inspired by Kobe Bryant. Another name to be added to the elite list of superstars inspired by Kobe is Tracy McGrady.

When asked what pushed him to be better, McGrady had only one name in mind and it was Kobe.

Tracy McGrady on Kobe’s influence

Talking on The Draymond Green Show, Tracy McGrady and the host talked about facing Kobe Bryant. When asked about the impact Kobe had on McGrady, he had a lot to say.

He said, “I think competing against Kobe around that time and holding my own. If it’s my fourth year, Kobe is in his fifth year. And he’s that dude.“

McGrady added, “I was like, he’s the bar so if I’m competing against him every night, I belong here. It’s just staying focused, sacrificing, and really understanding.“

McGrady’s words were enough to show how Bryant pushed him to become a better player and he is one of the many players who have thanked Kobe for being an inspiration.

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Superstars like DeMar DeRozan, Devin Booker, and Jayson Tatum. Tatum of the Boston Celtics had the opportunity of working out with Bryant in 2018. Jayson Tatum’s fadeaway jumpers are very similar to the ones executed by The Mamba himself.

Kobe Bryant vs Tracy McGrady head to head

While Kobe Bryant played for the Los Angeles Lakers all his life, Tracy McGrady spent most of his career at Houston Rockets.

Kobe has won 5 NBA championships while McGrady could not register a ring to his name.

The two have faced each other 21 times during their career. All of their games have come during the NBA regular season and Kobe has the edge with 14 wins over McGrady.

Tracy McGrady averages 17.9 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.8 assists in the 14 games against Bryant. Kobe, on the other hand, averages 26.9 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 5.3 assists. (Source:landofbasketball.com)

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What is your favorite memory of Kobe Bryant? Let us know in the comments below.