Kobe Bryant’s Defensive Arsenal Was Strengthened by NBA Legend Who Locked Up Michael Jordan During Playoffs

The Seattle Supersonics are where Gary Payton gave some of his best performances. Later, he also contributed to the Los Angeles Lakers and Miami Heat. While being on the Lakers team, he developed a great relationship with his teammate, the legendary Kobe Bryant. 

We must also mention Payton’s competitiveness and perseverance, which made him one of the greatest athletes we have ever witnessed. His defensive skills were among the best in history. But there were times when his ability was questioned by other players.

‘The Last Dance’ in Episode 8 portrays Michael Jordan laughing at Payton. Apparently, ‘The Glove’ had said something about defending Jordan back in the 1996 NBA Finals. The statement made by Payton triggered laughter from Jordan.

Apart from this, his time with Bryant is always considered one of the best games the Lakers have ever played. The Lakers won 5 championships with Bryant, who gave his career to the team. Recently, during an interview, Payton referred to his friend and teammate.

Through his insightful defensive brain, this NBA legend, who was publicly ridiculed by Jordan, changed Kobe’s game for good. It is well known what a great player Payton was. He and Kobe were a great duo to watch. In ‘The Old Man and the Three,’ he was asked about his time in Los Angeles and his relationship with Kobe. 

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Gary Payton helped Kobe Bryant to improve his defensive skills

Kobe Bryant was regarded as the most competitive player and sometimes was called selfish during his games at that time. Payton discussed this when asked about Bryant’s apparently ‘selfish’ traits and his reputation in this regard. He responded in a way that shut down all the allegations made against him. He described Bryant’s competitive nature as follows:

“Why would he always go to the veterans and ask them what can he do to get better, selfish players don’t do that. He was a player that wanted to be better he always asked me what to do the year he came to me in the all-star game and asked me how to play defense.”

Further, Payton spoke of Kobe’s commitment to becoming the best in the world and about his work ethic. Tell us what you think in the comments section below.

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