In 2009, Metta World Peace was recruited to the Los Angeles Lakers. Teaming up with Kobe Bryant, the Lakers hoped Metta’s aggressive style of play would help deliver the Black Mamba his fifth championship. However, in his initial few games, Kobe felt as though the forward was shying away from being his usual aggressive self. So, as revealed in the 2019 documentary, Quiet Storm: The Ron Artest Story, he went about trying to change that. And, he succeeded in doing so, by carefully phrasing his words and molding his teammate into bringing out his aggression.
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Previously known as Ron Artest, Metta changed his name in 2011 due to his interest in Buddhism. He did so, with the intention of keeping his anger in check, and in turn, keeping himself from hurting others. This was in stark contrast with his style of play, and as such took the edge off of him. But, Kobe was intent on changing that.
Kobe Bryant encouraged Metta World Peace to embrace his aggressive style of play
Kobe Bryant won his fifth NBA Championship in 2010. However, he could not have done it without the help of some key members of the Lakers roster. One of them being none other than Ron Artest or Metta World Peace.
Artest, who was signed by the Lakers in 2009 changed his name in 2011. However, along with the name change came a change in personality, and in turn, led to a new style of play. Known for his aggression, Metta became a more docile player, less prone to playing with his usual physicality.
This wouldn’t do for Kobe. And, as he revealed in Metta’s 2019 documentary, he took it upon himself to rekindle Metta’s fire. How did he do that? Well, after a game he met Metta at a restaurant and reminded him about how “peace” is achieved. Through victory in “war.”
“We got finished playing a game. He wasn’t as physical as he normally is. So after the game, I’m out at dinner and I’m eating. Metta comes walking in. I said, ‘Metta… where’s the physicality? Where’s the toughness?’ He said, ‘Oh man! I’m not trying to upset anybody. Do anything like this.’ I said, ‘Your name is Metta World Peace right?’ And he said, ‘Yeah!’ I said, ‘How do you think peace is accomplished?’ He goes, ‘I don’t know!’ I said, ‘Through war! Win the war and then you have peace. Got it? Alright!'”
This certainly had an effect on Metta. And, a few months later, he was alongside the Black Mamba as he hoisted up the Lakers’ 16th championship, and won his fifth ring.
Kobe and Metta spent four years together playing for the LA Lakers
Metta World Peace spent four seasons in the Lakers. He signed with the LA outfit in 2009 on a five-year deal worth $33 million. During his time with the team, he was essential in helping Kobe Bryant win his fifth championship. He was a crucial member of the roster, but he never got to serve out his five seasons in LA.
In 2013, the Lakers decided to waive him in order to gain relief from the salary cap. It was disheartening for both him and Lakers fans, but his contributions will never be forgotten.
