Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant once spoke about one of the most hated Lakers stars. Kobe, also known as ‘Mamba’ because of his killer mentality, spent 20 seasons playing for the Lakers. Mamba won 5 championships with the Lakers and cemented his spot as a legend. The Lakers, acknowledging his efforts and contributions, retired two of his jersey numbers – 8 & 24. 

The 18-time NBA All-Star spoke in an interview about one of the most hated Lakers stars and said that he saw the same thing in him which Michael Jordan saw in Kobe.

A shared aggressive spirit

Legendary basketball player Kobe Bryant opened up to sportscaster Ahmad Rashad about his goals in the NBA and the unrelenting effort he put in to accomplish them.

Ahmad Rashad while talking about Kobe’s game asked, “Have you run into anybody playing today young younger players that have that same fire that same passion that you have for the game?” Kobe replied, “Westbrook plays me …. played me like I did with an aggression.”

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Looking back on his career, Kobe drew a comparison between himself and the feisty Russell Westbrook. The Mamba saw the same fierce aggressiveness that defined his own play in the NBA. Kobe saw in Westbrook what Michael Jordan saw in Kobe. 

An important meeting between Kobe and his hero, Michael Jordan, is also discussed in the interview. Kobe bravely challenged Jordan at their first encounter at practice, declaring that he would find out what the basketball superstar had to give on the floor despite Jordan’s legendary status and despite Kobe’s young age (he was just 21).

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Kobe’s tough resolve and warrior spirit deeply impressed Michael after their brash encounter.

A mentor-mentee relationship: Kobe and MJ’s special connection

Michael Jordan’s impact on the basketball world is unparalleled, earning him the title of the Greatest of All-Time. ‘His Airness’ mesmerized audiences with his dominant performances, securing six NBA titles throughout his illustrious career. Jordan became a global inspiration for people of all ages.

Michael’s influence extended far and wide, with countless individuals aspiring to ‘Be like Mike’. Among those inspired was the late and great Kobe Bryant. Many people often considered Kobe to be the second coming of Jordan due to his exceptional skill and mentality on the court.

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Throughout Kobe’s early career, he shared a mentor-mentee relationship with Michael Jordan – a bond that Kobe spoke fondly of during his farewell season. Their special connection was evident, and MJ remained a guiding force in Kobe’s life.

Even after Kobe’s untimely passing, Michael Jordan stood by his side. Jordan provided support to Vanessa Bryant when the ‘Mamba’ was inducted into the prestigious Hall of Fame. Their unique relationship symbolizes the lasting impact and camaraderie between two basketball icons, forever connected through their shared passion and excellence on the court.