Kobe Bryant Already Told Us How We Should Remember Him
It has been just over a day since former Los Angeles Lakers great Kobe Bryant sadly passed away after a devastating helicopter crash on Sunday morning. That pushed forward much support, appreciation, and gratitude towards Bryant on what he brought to the table on the court and the impact he made those around him and that watched him play for two decades. It has also brought forth what his legacy will be, which is something that Bryant made clear years ago what he wants that to be.
Kobe Bryant’s illustrious career
In his 20 seasons in the league, Bryant spent making numerous memorable moments while achieving a tremendous amount of team and individual success along the way.
He reached the mountaintop with five NBA titles along with a pair of NBA Finals MVPs, 18 All-Star Game selections, 11-time All-NBA First Team selections, nine-time All-Defensive First-Team nods, and three-time All-Defensive Second Team selection. Beyond that, Bryant also finished his career being third all-time in scoring and fourth on the all-time postseason scoring list.
Bryant’s career was full of incredible moments, ranging from his 81-point performance against the Toronto Raptors to 60 points in his final NBA game. Many parts of his career stand out that could speak to his unmistakable talent on the floor that is going to make him a first-ballot Hall of Famer and a legend forever.
Kobe Bryant’s legacy in his own words
In the wake of Bryant’s sudden death, it’s put his illustrious NBA career front and center where he cemented himself as an all-time great.
There are many things that he can be remembered by, but back in December 2015, shortly after he announced his 20th year would be his last, he laid out how he wanted his legacy to be.
“I’ve always said that I wanted to be remembered as a player that didn’t waste a moment. Didn’t waste a day. I felt extremely blessed with a god-given talent. At the same time, I didn’t take it for granted at all. So if I could be remembered as a person with a lot of talent, but did everything he could to overachieve and lived every day like if he’s was the 12th guy on the bench. I think that is a very powerful message to have and something that hopeful the hopefully the players that are here now and those that come later will choose to embody as well.
Bryant entered the league with plenty of hype and expectations, and he more than fulfilled that by putting forth an incredible career. It was one that was fueled by his unrelenting work ethic and drive to be the best. Bryant pushed his way forward through any hurdle, be it injuries or struggles on or off the court led by his commitment to his craft.
His legacy is one that mirrors what he set it out to be, and it’s one that has drawn a great deal of inspiration from others far and wide.
Kobe Bryant’s imprint
Although Bryant is no longer here, he has left an everlasting imprint on the league and the world of sports.
His legacy and impact on the NBA is one that will live on for generations to come that will aspire to have that same drive and dedication in their careers. It’s something that many can draw inspiration from beyond the realm of sports, as many of those characteristics can be applied to everyday life and how to approach many of the hurdles thrown your way.
It may be hard to comprehend and come to terms with Bryant passing on, but it’s a time to embrace and celebrate the positive impact he has made during his time.
