Kobe Bryant aka Black Mamba transcended the realm of basketball to become a global icon. His remarkable court feats continue to derive discourses and discussions. One such debate lately threw limelight on his legendary life and times.

Actor Tyrese Gibson along with former NBA champions Stephen Jackson and Matt Barnes recently sat and share a vivid picture of the icon who tragically passed away in a helicopter crash in 2020. 

How MJ fueled Kobe Byrant’s passion

The trio discussed the shooting guard in the latest episode of “All the Smoke” on “SHOWTIME Basketball”. Stephen Jackson recalled Kobe Bryant’s early years highlighting his singular focus on becoming the greatest basketball player of all time.

Bryant as a boy had a “hit list” of top players in his class and his primary goal was to outperform them all. “He was thinking being the greatest basketball player of all time as a teenager,” Jackson noted “and that was his only conversation.” 

Tyrese Gibson who knew Kobe Bryant through a mutual friend and singer Brandy echoed Jackson’s sentiments.

“Bryant’s intense drive was sparked by Michael Jordan,” Gibson added. “He was able to even identify and connect to MJ and then he like, I want to even be bigger and better. But it was a constant appetite of aggression.”

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Kobe himself at many points had mentioned Jordan’s influence on him. 

Kobe Byrant off the court 

Matt Barnes who had the opportunity to know Kobe Bryant both as a teammate and a friend shared insights into the late legend’s life off the court.

Barnes touched upon Bryant’s guarded nature saying the Lakers legend didn’t let everybody in. “This aspect [of Bryant’s personality] was part of his strategy to always have an edge and be sharp,” Barnes said. 

Bryant wanted to be remembered not just for his basketball career but for his contributions in the next 20 years of his life. “I’m like,” Barnes recalled, “you’re Kobe Bryant, 5 championships, Los Angeles Lakers, one of the great. He’s like, I want to be known for the next 20.” 

Watch the Story: Kobe Bryant’s career-high against every team

Kobe was not just an extraordinary athlete but a man of intense focus, relentless ambition, and a deep desire to make a lasting impact. The trio’s take has only vindicated that widespread view.