Wilkins honors the Mamba. Kobe Bryant’s Legacy was replete with unforgettable moments. Perhaps the most remembered was his desire to continue playing even when he got injured on the court. An example was on April 13, 2013, against the Golden State Warriors. After he had torn his Achilles, he hit two free throws. Bleeding but cool, he made both shots to seal the Lakers’ win. It was an important win that kept them in playoff contention. Although Bryant himself would not be able to take part in the playoffs.
A 1996 draftee, Kobe was a bridge between old-school and modern players. His indomitable will to win defined his career. Unlike most, he played through the pain, which said much about his high tolerance and dedication. In a little over 20 NBA seasons, he earned more than most had, commanding respect from peers and legends alike.
The legend himself Wilkins honors the Mamba and made sure to give credit to Kobe when he came to town for his last game in Atlanta: “When you leave, the last of our kind leave with it.” Kobe expressed deep emotion, saying that it’s not the first time a legend has praised him in such a way. Kobe Bryant’s Legacy, Wilkins praised Kobe’s resilience. The decision to come back and play on a damaged Achilles-a decision few would attempt.
Kobe-less intimidation-acknowledged that the rupture had him admittedly afraid this could be the end of his career. He discussed in his documentary “Muse” the quiet and the thought that this could be the one that finally took me down when the injury happened. He was 35 then, was in the league 18 years, and the uncertainty was major.
Although the injury did affect the twilight of his career, Kobe did play two more seasons, topping it all off in style with an amazing 60-point farewell game against the Utah Jazz. As Dominique Wilkins said about him, “The closest Michael-like player ever”. He outlined just how much of an effect Kobe left on the game and its players.
Comments