Few titles in the halls of the sport’s history have a similarly deep echo as Kobe Bryant’s. The legend of the 15x All-NBA member resurfaced recently in 46-year-old American player’s recollections. Devean George sheds focus on the hidden histories of his shared path with the icon who lost his life in a 2020 copter crash.
Kobe was an 18x All-Star who dedicated his 20-year career to the Los Angeles Lakers. The shooting guard left behind a lasting legacy which often resurfaces in his teammate’s memory.
Kobe Bryant’s commitment beyond the game
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George got candid about Kobe Bryant’s legacy in a YouTube video. The video by Forgotten Seasons titled “Devean George on Lakers 3-Peat and Downfall, Untold Kobe and Shaq Stories” reveals a side of Bryant that few have seen, despite Mamba’s reputation as an ace athlete. George conflicted with Lakers management at a crucial juncture in the contract discussions, and he turned to Bryant for help to ensure his future with the series. However, Bryant’s response was a harsh reality check that made George feel both abandoned and awakened.
George stated, “He was pushing for me to get my resigned contract. He called me every day, asking, ‘Did they get the numbers right?'” Bryant’s dedication to his teammates’ success is demonstrated by George’s memory of Bryant’s participation in his contract negotiations. But Bryant’s willingness to minimize the circumstances highlighted his commitment beyond the game.
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Bryant’s method for George’s sense of strength
Bryant’s seemingly strict methods helped George develop his resiliency and confidence in himself. George was simmered beneath the surface, by his teammate’s honesty, but he also gained a renewed sense of strength and independence from the experience. Though initially startling, Bryant’s tough love eventually cleared the path for George’s development—both on and off the court.
Read More: Kobe Bryant Turned NBA Champion’s Twins Towards One Goal With Harsh Reality Check
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Furthermore, in the conversation George mentioned, “He was ready to go, and they were like, ‘Nah, young fella, we’ve been here doing this. Go at this rate, go at this pace.’ But he was like, ‘No, we gonna go this fast’ “. According to George’s accounts, Bryant was a young man who was full of pride and swagger and was not ashamed to show off his supremacy on the playing field. Finally, Bryant left a lasting impression with his tough love and unyielding honesty. His commitment to challenging teammates to go beyond their comfort zones cemented his reputation.
Continue Reading: “I Fell to My Knees”: Kobe Bryant Beef Forgotten, Ex-Teammate Struggled to Deal With Devastating Revelation