Imago
Courtesy: IMAGO
Imago
Courtesy: IMAGO
“Rest at the end, not in the middle.” Throughout his life, Kobe Bryant held steadfast to this belief. While many have called this the “Mamba Mentality”, it wasn’t a thought process exclusive to Kobe Bean. In fact, his idol, Michael Jordan was very much cut from the same cloth. Notably, both iconic shooting guards had two important people in common. One was Phil Jackson, who was at the helm for all 11 rings that Mike and Kobe won between them. The other, was their personal trainer, Tim Grover.?
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Grover worked exclusively with Jordan for 15 years. Following this, he introduced His Airness?to the?Black Mamba.?Apparently, the two would soon develop a relationship that included communicating at odd hours. Tim Grover shed light on the real reason behind it in his book.
Why did Kobe Bryant make late-night calls to Michael Jordan?
The late Los Angeles Lakers legend was under Grover’s guidance for more than five years. Throughout their training relationship, Grover had the opportunity to closely study Bryant?s work regimen. In his book, ‘Winning: The Unforgiving Race to Greatness,’ Grover delves into the mindset and work ethic of both Bryant and Jordan, offering valuable insights.
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Lakers legend Kobe Bryant (8), talking to Michael Jordan (23) during the 2003 NBA All-Star game, first met the Bulls superstar at age 13.(Andrew D. Bernstein / NBAE via Getty Images)
Tim highlighted the intense and unwavering determination that compelled Kobe to always strive for improvement. This relentless drive was the very reason he didn’t hesitate to make late-night calls to Michael Jordan.
The 58-year-old personal trainer explained the story. “He [Kobe Bryant] didn’t just call his friend and idol Michael Jordan to ask what’s up, he called him in the middle of the night, asking questions and looking for ways to become .0001 percent better.”?
In an interview, the Chicago Bulls legend shared how he once encouraged Bryant to reach out whenever he required assistance. Kobe didnot hesitate. Be it through a call or a text, even as late as 3 in the morning, the two remained in close contact. Whenever Kobe took him up on that offer, MJ provided the Black Mamba with guidance on post-up techniques and footwork, occasionally delving into the triangle offense.
Tim Grover added, “Everything he [Bryant] did, in basketball and in life, was about his desire to win.?
As Grover mentioned, he was never at rest. ?Kobe has also always expressed his gratitude to the legend.
Kobe extended his gratitude to Jordan
Bryant’s commitment to his goal was evident in his relentless work ethic, countless hours in the gym, and an unwavering desire to be the best.
He earned numerous accolades, including five NBA championships, and even after his retirement, he continued to work hard. But he always remained humble, In the ‘The Last Dance’ series, Kobe Bryant conveyed a touching message to convey his appreciation to his idol.
Kobe’s words were, “I don?t get 5 championships without him because he guided me so much and gave me so much advice.?
Which is your favorite memory of Bryant? Tell us in the comments below.
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Edited by
Aakash Nair