Kobe Bryant, who tragically died in a helicopter crash along with his daughter, was one of the most significant players in NBA history. Owing to his remarkable accomplishments and career statistics, fans, commentators, and other players hold him in high regard. Bryant, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in NBA history, spent his entire 20-year career with the Los Angeles Lakers.
A legend like Bryant, whose Staples Center locker is set to be auctioned for a million dollars, is someone whom several NBA players aspire to emulate or play alongside. During his debut season, one Lakers player received this unique opportunity. In a recent episode of the Run Your Race podcast, Lakers point guard D’Angelo Russell recalled his experience of being a part of Lakers legend Kobe Bryant’s final NBA season.
“What was crazy, his year turned into a farewell tour out of nowhere… We [the Lakers] were trash… When you got the ball and they booing you, you know what that means. Get that ball to that man… You just see his face, he looked young, bro. Just looked like he had it… You can see it mentally, he was prepared. Everybody in the world was at the game.” Russell said.
Russell looks back on Bryant’s farewell season, including his 60-point masterpiece in his final NBA game.
Russell Acknowledged Bryant’s Superior Basketball Knowledge
Bryant achieved incredible success throughout his career, including winning five NBA championships, being selected as an All-Star 18 times, making the All-NBA Team 15 times, earning the 2008 NBA Most Valuable Player award, and being named NBA Finals MVP twice. Russell mentioned that he was only 18 years old during his rookie season. At that time, Bryant’s basketball knowledge surpassed Russell’s understanding.
“I was 18 so the knowledge [Kobe] was kicking was way over my head and I’m looking him in his face like [nodding] and not hearing nothing he’s saying until like years later,” Russell added.
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Due to his Mamba Mentality and never-give-up attitude, Bryant inspires many athletes. The five-time NBA champion will always be regarded as the NBA’s most important player.
