Jerry West, the legendary Los Angeles Lakers guard and executive, recently reflected on Kobe Bryant’s extraordinary career and work ethic. Speaking on the podcast with Paul George, West offered heartfelt insight into what made Bryant truly special. However, his comments came just after Dennis Rodman reignited the conversation about Bryant’s place in the GOAT debate. At the same time, Shaquille O’Neal did not hesitate to include Bryant in the same conversation.
West, as the Lakers’ GM, made a trade that brought Kobe to the Lakers in 1996. He recalled how Bryant’s presence stood out immediately. Bryant always gave his most whole effort in practice or on the big stage. However, West saw the hard work and determination that shaped Kobe’s 20-year, five-time championship career up close.
“To watch him work out, it was ridiculous, OK? Like a man playing against kindergarten people. That’s how advanced he was,” West added. “He was versatile. But he was a ferocious defender. That’s all he did. He wanted to compete. He was unbelievably skilled — his work ethic second to none. He wasn’t afraid of anything, and it was genuine. It’s not verbiage.”
Bryant’s energy was almost too much to contain. For Jerry, Bryant’s unmatched passion and drive for his game remain locked in his memory. Moreover, his legacy holds a lasting inspiration to players and fans around the basketball world.
The Los Angeles Lakers’ Star Expressed His Honor For Kobe Bryant On His Birthday
On Kobe Bryant’s 47th birthday, NBA stars and fans honored his legacy with love and respect. Vanessa Bryant, Kobe Bryant’s wife, shared a touching photo and message, remembering both Kobe and their daughter Gianna. Their daughter Natalia also posted a sweet tweet tribute.
The Lakers star, LeBron James, joined in by sharing a video of his last game with Kobe and added an emotional caption. “He’s done so much for our league…Much respect, much love for the Mamba,” he wrote.
However, many others across the NBA and social media paid tribute and showed that Kobe’s memory remains strong in the hearts of fans and his close ones.
The post Lakers’ Jerry West Honors Kobe Bryant’s Unstoppable And Fearless Legacy originally published on Total Pro Sports.