Kobe Bryant Taught Will Smith How to Deal With Chris Rock Long Before the Infamous Slap at Oscars That Has Broken the Internet

Kobe Bryant was one of the best basketball players in the history of the NBA. His game was on another level. He stayed with the Lakers all his career and created a legacy of his own. Kobe was always one step ahead of his opponents. He was often the best player on the court.

Kobe won 5 NBA championships with the Lakers in his career. He has the 4th most points in history. Kobe’s belief in himself was unwavering ever since he made his debut in 1996. He always knew the potential and ability he had. He never doubted his talent.

His impact and influence over the years were immense. The way he played the game, he was impossible to stop on most days. He dominated the NBA in the 2000s. There were many attributes of his game that were simply outstanding and world renowned. But his mentality was something that nobody else could match. It was something that became a phenomenon. The Mamba mentality became a trademark.

WATCH THIS STORY: 5 things to learn from Kobe Bryant’s Mamba mentality.

Kobe Bryant displays his Mamba mentality in front of Chris Rock

The internet is in a storm right now. Will Smith slapping Chris Rock at the Oscars has broken the internet. However, years back, Kobe showed the perfect way of dealing with something that means business to you.

Way back around 12 to 14 years ago, Chris Rock had the shortest ‘interaction’ with Kobe Bryant when Kobe did not interact at all. He just straight up ignored Chris Rock. This during an NBA finals game. Chris Rock was in attendance and seated courtside. He probably was just showing his admiration for Kobe, cracking jokes, and being funny to get a reaction out of Kobe. But Kobe was absolutely unmoved. He was off the court for a few minutes in the 4th quarter of the game and he kept staring towards the game without batting an eye. 

Also read: Kobe Bryant’s unwavering belief in himself ever since his young days.

Kobe just ignored Chris Rock, as if there was absolutely no one around him. It was only him and the game in front of him. This was another display of Kobe’s Mamba mentality. Absolutely focused, determined and dedicated to what’s in front of him. Nothing could become a distraction and the mind set on one goal. The Mamba mentality will forever remain inspirational just like Kobe.