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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

Kobe Bryant was not only one of the greatest players of all time, but he was one of the best mentors ever. A lot of star players like Kawhi Leonard, Jayson Tatum, Kyrie Irving, and other superstars used to train under Kobe in the offseason. A lot of current players have copied Kobe’s style and have tried to implement it in their game. His work ethic and determination inspired many.

Kyle Kuzma was one such player who used to be mentored by Kobe. He used to work out with him and Kobe used to call Kuzma to check on him. Like many, Kuzma was devastated when he learned that Kobe had passed away. He has given tribute to Kobe whenever possible. One such time was in the game against the Philadelphia 76ers.

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The Washington Wizards took on the 76ers on Wednesday at the Wells Fargo Center. The Wizards were coming off a 6 game losing streak, and they desperately needed this win to get back on track. They won 106-103 in a very closely contested game. Meanwhile, there was a moment in the fourth quarter that reminded everyone of Kobe.

Kuzma gives a shout out to Kobe Bryant after hitting his signature shot

Kuz got the ball on the wing, and he was guarded by Tyrese Maxey. He drove the ball before posting him up. With less than 6 seconds on the shot clock, Kuzma hit a turnaround fadeaway which went in. This shot was very similar to Kobe’s signature fadeaway, which had caught many players off guard.

This is one of the many moves by Kobe which were just unguardable. A lot of players have tried to emulate this, but few have up with the same level of success as the Black Mamba.

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Kuz is one such player who is not afraid to take difficult shots, and he has to confidence to take to drive the ball even on a possible miss. After that game, Kuzma even paid tribute to the late Kobe Bryant. He looked to Kobe, and he used to receive words of wisdom for the Laker great. Kuzma once said he had a workout with Kobe and it was the hardest workout he was part of.

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Kobe used to always speak highly of Kuz and even said to Rob Pelinka that Kuzma was in great shape after the workout. This just shows how Kobe was interested in helping young players in basketball and life in general.

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