Kobe Bryant was one of the greatest players in the sport of basketball. The Black Mamba was known for his work ethic, tenacity, and drive to be the best. Something that was on display every time he stepped onto the court.
Advertisement
The five-time NBA Champion gave 20 years of his life to the sport. During that time, Kobe won the hearts of many, inspiring several of today’s young stars. And, perhaps the most iconic thing about him that people try to replicate is his mentality.
The Mamba Mentality is what made Bryant so special outside of his natural talent and ability. The man was determined to be at his best and would even fight through injury in order to secure victory. Case in point, when he suffered his horrific Achilles injury and tried his best to pull up the tendon, all so he could continue playing.
Kobe Bryant was determined to continue playing the game even after his Achilles injury
In 2013, Kobe Bryant was considered by many to be a Top-5 player in the league. However, on April 12th of that year, the Black Mamba suffered an Achilles injury. One that changed the course of his basketball career.
At the time of the injury, the Lakers were in the closing moments of a game against the Golden State Warriors. A game where a few points could make the difference between winning and losing. So, what did Kobe do? He limped back on the court and made a pair of clutch free throws.
But, that wasn’t enough for him. As he explained in an interview, he was desperate to get back on the court and support his team. So he tried pulling his tendon up to play. Unfortunately, his Achilles continued to roll, and Kobe knew his night was over, leaving him feeling devastated.
“I was literally trying to pull the tendon up. So hopefully I could walk and you know hobble through the last two-and-a-half minutes of the game and try to play. Shot the free throws and walked back to the bench. I tried to move around a little bit…I knew it was torn…but tried to see if there was a way I could move around on the foot just a little bit. Just to finish the game off…be a decoy…be a threat. And, I tried but I just felt the Achilles continuing to roll up my leg and I was thinking, “I probably should go to the locker room!”. But, the part that sucks…I saw my kids walking out…that was tough!”
It was a heartbreaking moment. But, with Kobe, the sense of determination and the need to improve is always there. So, seven months later, he made his return much to the excitement of the fans.
Kobe returned to full-time action against the Raptors in December 2013
Kobe’s injury was a huge blow not just to himself and the Lakers, but also to the fans who loved watching him play. However, if there is one thing to know about the Black Mamba, it is his drive to be the best. So, just seven months later, Bryant made a full recovery, returning to the game he loved on December 2013 to face the Toronto Raptors.
He truly is one of the legends of the game. One that will always be remembered for the amazing moments he gave and the knowledge he imparted.
