Kobe Bryant inspired a generation of aspiring athletes during his prime. He also inspired them after his retirement and continues to do so even after his tragic passing. One of the biggest stars he has inspired is Coco Gauff, who is playing to win. Into the final of the US Open, she still carries the NBA legend in her mind.

Gauff, along Bryant, also looks up to another NBA star. The Los Angeles Laker star and the highest scorer of the NBA is someone who has inspired million. Gauff is one of them and tries to take some qualities of the star herself.

Coco Gauff on how she takes inspiration from late NBA Legend

After her win against Karolína Muchová, Gauff was all smiles as she moved on to her second slam final and gained a chance at her first major title. While a cause for celebration, Gauff’s mind did not linger as there is still work to be done. She shares this mindset with former Los Angeles Lakers star and late NBA legend Kobe Bryant.

In her post-match interview, she said, “Job’s not done”, which made reporters wonder if it was a reference to the Black Mamba. Gauff later clarified, saying, “Yeah. Definitely. He’s, like, has an incredible mentality. One of the things is when he’s up and, you know, the finals, NBA Finals when they’re up in the count or 3-1, whatever lead they have, he doesn’t celebrate. He’d satisfy, give himself a pat on the back but time to move on.”

She added, “So that’s the mentality that I have. I’m trying to enjoy the moment but also knowing I still have more work to do. Yes, the final is an incredible achievement but it’s something that I’m not satisfied with yet.”

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The young American sensation looks up to the basketball legend but she’s not the only tennis player who remembers him fondly. His death in January 2020 was tragic and made millions around the world mourn. But his image is still strong today as it continues to inspire stars of many sports. Gauff is also an admirer of another NBA star. 

Gauff’s admiration of another NBA Legend

Coco Gauff is quite open about her admiration of the Williams sisters. But beyond tennis, she looks up to LeBron James more than any other star. She was open about her idolizing the tennis great in an interview prior to her Cincinnati Masters final. She takes after him because of his resilience and will to never give up in the face of adversity.

The highest NBA scorer has sealed his image in the heart of Gauff. Now, she will go into the US Open final with him in mind and she will make sure that she can fight like him no matter the situation in front of her.

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