There aren’t a lot of players in today’s NBA quite as competitive as Kevin Garnett. The Boston Celtics legend was among the most fierce competitors in the history of the league. As a result, there were only a few that could match KG in intensity. Among them, perhaps the most famous was Kobe Bryant. But there was a stark difference in the way the two legends carried themselves. Despite sharing a similar ferocity, Kobe would appear far more poised.

The more rugged-looking Garnett, however, has a theory on why that was the case. During their career trajectories, the two would become synonymous with the physical style of the 2000s. While both found immaculate success, their journeys were far different. However, the two icons had some legendary battles on the NBA Finals stage.

As per Kevin Garnett, Kobe Bryant was “bigger than life“

Those battles and competition gave way to a friendship and mutual respect between the two. It also allowed KG a first-hand experience into what gave The Mamba his larger-than-life aura. Speaking to Stephen A. Smith, the former MVP was ready to detail what made him special.

“If you know Kobe, you know he wanted real-time information. Private school motherf***ers…I saw when he was nervous, I saw when he was a human being…It took years for people to understand that this kid just wanted to be great and he was going at it the way he saw it. Slowly, but surely, it started to resonate. It started to transcend into something great. Next thing I know, he was bigger than life.”

While unusual, his path was born out of a strive to be great. That is one mentality that Garnett can wholeheartedly share with the 5x NBA Champion. And, it is one that has carried over to the current generation as well.

In addition to his own career, Kobe inspired an entire generation.

Watch This Story: “I Am Disappointed”: Celtics Legend Kevin Garnett Acknowledges His Earlier Prediction On Former Warriors Star Didn’t Age Well

Multiple stars of today’s NBA have the Black Mamba to thank

While Vanessa celebrates their first meet together, the vestiges of the 2008 MVP are clear as day in today’s landscape. Whether it is the iconic fadeaway, the relentless competitiveness, or buzzer-beaters, the NBA continues to see players emulate and draw inspiration from Bryant.

Just recently, Trae Young spoke about how Kobe’s message gave him new hope and inspiration. Devin Booker hitting a game-winner in New York had his teammates giving him a Kobe Bryant-esque likeness.

At every turn in the NBA, the influence of the Black Mamba is apparent. While he was iconic as a basketball player, Kobe has transcended to another level since leaving the sport behind.

Read More: How Has Kobe Bryant’s Aura Transcended Beyond Basketball