‘Just About Getting Better’: Phil Handy Reveals How Kawhi Leonard Wanted to Train With Kobe Bryant

Talking about work style, Kobe Bryant is the inspiration that any player needs. Kawhi Leonard, a terrific force in the league, encapsulates the teachings of the Mamba. The ‘Klaw’ is the apt second name given to the superstar for his ball-handling skills. And, adding to his talent, his mid-range jumpers are a piece of art for the basketball audience.

Despite Kawhi’s brilliance in the game, fans don’t see a reactive game face on the star’s face. He has a subtle way of dealing with wins and losses which makes him an underdog player most of the time.

Kawhi chooses Kobe Bryant as his training partner

Well, Kawhi’s determination and hard work has often been familiarized with Kobe Bryant. And, former Raptors coach Phil Handy talked about Kawhi’s wish to train with Kobe in his prime years. In the usual scenario, Kawhi likes to train in the gym on his own and with no distractions. But this one time, he needed Mamba’s motivation.

Phil narrated on ‘All the Smoke’ podcast, “He’s (Kawhi) just one of those dudes that really just about getting better. He’s like, ‘Yo, I wanna get with Kobe. How can we get with Kobe? I’m trynna get that process.’ So we went down and spent some time with Kobe.”

READ MORE: Clippers Coach Tyronn Lue Roots For LA Fan Support After Lakers’ Season Exit

Kawhi Leonard always wants to get better

Kawhi wanted to get better and continue learning. He has a drive as a player to get committed to his work and this time he wished it was under Kobe’s guidance. Phil further added, “He (Kawhi) was always like, ‘I want to figure out this post-up stuff, I want to get my footwork right, my handles right.'”

Phil Handy has had a chance to guide a number of legends during his coaching career. From Cleveland Cavaliers, then Toronto Raptors to the Los Angeles Lakers, Phil has been on three championship teams. And, Kawhi was another product of his training who finally lifted a title with him in 2019.

WATCH THIS STORY: Kobe Bryant’s Most Memorable Playoff Games