“You got to do what you love to do,” said Kobe Bryant in 2020. Kobe Bryant’s fadeaway jump might have been legendary but his most impressive move was the seamless transition from basketball icon to devoted father. While fans worldwide celebrated his five NBA championships and 81-point game, those close to him witnessed an equally remarkable performance off the court. And recently, one of his old pals has shed light on one such incident.

In a recent appearance, Byron Scott had asked Bryant’s former teammate Derek Fisher to share one of Bryant’s stories. “They saw the Black Mamba, the assassin, the killer…but they didn’t see the intentionality behind the way he parented, the way he fathered, the way he was a husband, the way he showed up for his girls to coach them in basketball. The way he, you know, supported Gigi,” Derek Fisher said, via Byron Scott’s Fast Break. 

The former Los Angeles Lakers point guard went on to talk about how he was moved by Bryant’s principles and work ethic. The particular thing that had made a great impact on Fisher’s life was Bryant’s way of thinking. Fisher revealed during the interview that one time The Black Mamba himself had shared his perspective that whatever he was doing in the present was planned out in such a way that it benefit his family in the future. “How is the decision that I make today is going to impact my girls 20 years from now,” said the 50-year-old.

However, Fisher didn’t stop there. He even went on to share the contributions that Kobe had made to the WNBA. “[He] became one of the first players to like really put the WNBA on,” said Fisher. Kobe’s contribution to the WNBA is limitless. He impacted the Women’s league through his vocal support and he was also a frequent visitor of the games along with his daughter Gianna who wanted to play in the professional league. 

Kobe’s legacy extends beyond his basketball accomplishments. As we continue to mourn the loss of the legend, his old teammate has shed light on his greatness again. However, did you know that Bryant also admired Fisher?

When Kobe Bryant rained positive comments for Derek Fisher

Derek Fisher was a key member of the Los Angeles Lakers during Kobe Bryant’s prime. He had helped the team to conquer five championships with his clutch shots and defensive prowess. Surprisingly, Bryant had quickly recognized Fisher’s talents and had also praised him.

Fisher in his whole career had two stints with the Lakers and during his final exit from the team, Bryant had praised him as the ultimate teammate. “There’s a certain characteristic and an understanding and knowledge and that’s not something that’s easily taught. You kind of have to go through it and it kind of has to be part of your DNA from the beginning. So, that’s something that’s obviously tough to replace,” said Bryant to ESPN in 2012.

Even after his exit from the team, Bryant had admitted it was tough to play since he was so habituated to playing alongside Fisher. Therefore, Fisher’s presence at the Lakers helped in creating a winning culture as well as a lasting friendship.

Stay tuned for more such updates and join us for the exciting second episode of the “Dual Threat Show” as our host BG12 sits down with Georgia Bulldogs star and Mountain West All-Freshman Team Selection, Asia Avinger.