Kobe Bryant is no short of admirers. He is loved and respected by tons of people around the world. Bryant left thousands shedding their tears over his unfortunate demise. But, he is still remembered through his values, success and his personality.

Kobe has had some great partners in his 20-year career with the Los Angeles Lakers. Shaquille O’Neal might be the best of them all, but Lakers fans can never forget how Spain’s Pau Gasol linked up with the mamba.

Gasol spent six years with the Lakers and won them two championships playing alongside Bryant. The pair formed an explosive partnership and went to three straight NBA Finals. Gasol recently joined current Lakers player Danny Green and host Harrison Sanford on ‘Inside the Green Room.’

The 39-year-old at one point reminisced about the 2008 Olympic gold medal game against the USA. He then proceeded to talk about Kobe Bryant, his dear teammate who showed him what it meant to be tough.

Gasol narrates the competitive nature of Kobe Bryant

Pau Gasol didn’t hesitate to talk about Kobe’s tough nature. He called him a “cold-blooded competitor,” who set the tone for generations to come. His results through his visible hard work is rightly a lesson for all the aspiring kids who dream of making it to the top.

Danny Green also posed a question to Gasol, enquiring if he can name the best habits which Kobe Bryant displayed. “His work ethic was unparalleled, Gasol said. He was just determined and obsessed with being  the best at all times.”

Gasol praised Kobe’s passion for his own development. He used to put in so much extra work and even sacrificed his sleep towards achieving greatness. His commitment frightened Gasol as he would work out at unusual times, making him question his routine.

“He studied MJ from the very beginning. In order to become the best, you have to study the best,” he said, speaking about Kobe’s reason for inspiration. Gasol stated how Kobe would go to the gym to practice at 11 pm whereas he would be thinking about hitting the bed.

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The mamba’s devotion to the game was second to none. He wanted to achieve everything in the NBA. Gasol reflected on Kobe’s attitude on the court and said, “He’s contagious. And he brought the best of a lot of the guys, including myself. He brought a different level or two in everyone.”