“He Was a True Student”: How Kobe Bryant and Mamba Mentality Impacted Allen Iverson

Today, on June 7th, former Philadelphia 76ers star player, Allen Iverson turns 45. Until his retirement in 2010, Allen achieved numerous milestones in his NBA career. He mentioned in an interview a few months back, the one player he wanted to get teamed up with but never got a chance together. That was Kobe Bryant.

The two were drafted in the same year, 1996. While Allen was the first overall pick to Philadelphia, Kobe had a slow start being drafted by Charlotte Hornets and traded to the Lakers. With time, Allen and Kobe became fierce competitors but one common point that worked between them was their mutual respect for each other.

Kobe Bryant was known for his hard work and dedication throughout his career. But one such incident that Allen recalled in an interview with ‘Players’ Tribune’ proves that Kobe possessed that from the first day.

It’s back in 1996, the two went out for dinner and Kobe dropped Allen back. Kobe asked him, “What are you going to do tonight?” to which Iverson replied, “I’m going to the club. What are you going to do?” Further, Kobe’s response was, “I’m going to the gym.”

Allen Iverson holds massive respect for Kobe Bryant to date

Allen never forgets this particular incident and reminisces it fondly.“That was the Mamba. He was younger than me, but I actually looked up to him and his greatness,” And Iverson added. “That was who he (Kobe) always was, a true student of the game of basketball and also the game of life. He prepared relentlessly. There is something we can all learn from the Mamba Mentality and from the way my brother lived his life.”

The Lakers legend was known for his Mamba mentality, his late-night workouts, and utmost honesty towards the sport. Many drew comparisons between him and the great Michael Jordan for a long time. Moreover, he achieved prolific feats in his lifetime and never gave up on the toughest of situations as a player.

Also, Allen Iverson was a tough nut to crack during his playing days. But after his retirement in 2010, fans have received his softer end on some occasions. Moreover, Allen spoke with great fondness for Kobe after his death in January. He couldn’t believe that Kobe was no more. AI had released a statement on social media saying, “Words cannot express how I’m feeling today. The only 2 words that ring in my head – devastated and heartbroken.”