Kobe Bryant was among those few icons who left an inspiring effect on not just NBA players but on the world in general. His Mamba Mentality is something that players of this generation still aspire to instill in themselves. And new Washington Mystics forward Aaliyah Edwards is no exception to this situation of being a die-hard Black Mamba fan. So much so that on arguably the biggest night of her career so far, she paid a special tribute to Kobe and her brother, who brought her closer to the Mamba Mentality.

The 21-year-old appeared on the WNBA draft night with her signature purple and yellow braids. Notably, Edwards has donned these colored braids earlier too. They were a tribute to Kobe Bryant and her older brother, Jermaine Edwards. Aaliyah choosing one of the turning points of her life, the WNBA draft night, is her way of paying the same respect once again to her two heroes.

As per an Instagram post by Bleacher Report, it was Aaliyah’s late brother Jermaine who taught her Kobe’s moves and helped “instill the Mamba Mentality” in her. The ex-UConn Huskies star lost her brother back in February 2017. As per the reports, the cause of death was a heart-related issue.

Notably, the Washington Mystics selected Edwards with the sixth overall pick in a stacked 2024 WNBA Draft. This was in the books for a long time as most mock drafts had Edwards being picked by the Mystics, who were in need for a versatile forward.

Aaliyah Edwards to carry the Kobe Bryant legacy in the WNBA now

Speaking of the move, the Mystics General Manager, Mike Thibault, stated, “We are really excited to draft Aaliyah Edwards… We needed to select a player who complements Shakira Austin in our front court. Her competitiveness, high-end defensive motor and fast improving offensive game will fit well with what we are trying to build for our culture and future success.”

It is worth mentioning that Edwards won the 2023 Big East Most Improved Player during her junior season. Her stat-line too has shown a significant improvement this season. She averaged 17.6 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game in the 2023-24 season, as compared to 10.7 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 0.9 assists per game in her freshman year.

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This constant urge to improve and competitiveness reflects Kobe Bryant’s true Mamba Mentality in the 21-year-old. Teaming up with WNBA legend, Elena Delle Donne should only help Edwards grow and eventually take over the reigns whenever Delle Donne decides to hang up her boots.