“Kobe Bryant wasn’t much of a sentimental guy”: Pau Gasol references late Lakers legend’s ‘Mamba Mentality’ ahead of Hall of Fame induction

Pau Gasol says that Kobe Bryant wasn’t much of a sentimental guy and he tried to inspire and also, intimidate his teammates. 

Kobe Bryant wasn’t just some athlete who latched onto a schtick during their playing days and stuck to it so as to create a brand around himself that more or less, falsely displayed their true emotions towards the game they play. Kobe religiously followed exactly what he preached from day one. It was clear from the moment he stepped foot onto NBA hardwood that he was wired different. 

Everything from hunting a Michael Jordan match-up in his early days to shooting 4 straight airballs in a crucial Playoff game as a rookie, Kobe Bryant displayed no fear when on the court. So, it makes sense that he revolved his brand around the idea of a supposed ‘Mamba Mentality’; a state of mind that allows athletes to focus up and dial into the moment when playing a game.

Also read: “Michael Jordan will star alongside LeBron James”: Don Cheadle alludes to appearance from the ‘GOAT’ alongside Lakers superstar in Space Jam 2

Athletes to this day try to emulate the Black Mamba’s mindset when approaching a certain situation in-game, by remaining clam yet vigilant. 

Pau Gasol claims Kobe Bryant was never one for sentiment and always looked to keep things moving. 

Pau Gasol was one of Kobe Bryant’s dearest friends. Not only were the two an incredible on-court duo, but off it, were even closer. Both the Gasol and Bryant families are well integrated within one another due to the two superstars’ relationship. As per the Los Angeles Times, Pau Gasol recently revealed the 5x champ’s emotions when in-game. 

Also read: “James Harden is a better PG than Russell Westbrook”: NBA analyst controversially selects the Nets star over the 2017 NBA MVP

“The way Kobe Bryant impacted the world, I think beyond the world of sports, beyond basketball. He touched and inspired so many people. He went above and beyond that.”

“He wasn’t much of a sentimental guy. He was like, ‘snap out of it, let’s get to it, there’s no time to waste.’ He would try to inspire you and encourage you when he needed you to be inspired and encouraged. However, he would also try to intimidate you when he wanted to get the better of you.” 

It’s no surprise that Kobe Bryant wasn’t all too phased when experiencing setbacks on the court. He always looked to the next play, never dwelling on the past. This is what led to so many iconic game-winners; Kobe always living in the present.