Jodie Meeks knew early on that he had to bring his A-game when he joined Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers . Meeks put in time and effort to prove he was worthy of representing the Purple and Gold, especially in practice.
In fact, the Kentucky alum developed a habit of practicing by himself late at night. But there is one time that he will never forget. It was the night Bryant suddenly showed up just when he was about to wrap it up. Thinking he was all alone in the gym the whole time with the lights turned off, Jodie confessed to being startled by Kobe .
"I thought no one was there because all the lights were off in the weight room," Meeks told HoopsHype in 2021. "I'm done and about to get dressed and go home, and Kobe walks in. He kind of scared me because my back was to the door. I'm like, 'You were here?' He was like, 'Yeah, I was here the whole time in the weight room watching you. I really respect how you go about your craft.' I'm like, this dude is maniacal about his teammates and who he's playing with."
Kobe respects hardworking teammates
Bryant's "Mamba Mentality" encapsulated his approach to life and basketball. Through this mantra, Kobe established himself as one of the most hardworking players of all time. For the better part of his legendary NBA career, KB upheld a relentless work ethic and mental toughness, which he also demanded from his teammates.
Looking back, Meeks is grateful for the frightening yet memorable late-night encounter with Bryant, which marked the beginning of their synergy. From that point forward, Jodie revealed that he earned Kobe's trust and respect.
"I feel like when he knew that one of his teammates worked as hard or worked hard like him, he knew that he could trust you in times of need, and he can go to war with you," the 10-year NBA veteran reflected.
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What Kobe wanted in a teammate
Bean believed that greatness was not just about natural talent but, more importantly, the work one puts in to achieve his goals. As Meeks described, Bryant recognized his teammates who mirrored his dedication.
On the other hand, "Black Mamba" called out those who lacked passion, focus, and determination. However, that didn't mean that his teammates couldn't do the same to him. In fact, former Lakers forward Wesley Johnson once divulged that Kobe admired that type of courage from a teammate .
"If he (does) something bad, say it to him. People are probably scared to say something. He respects when people do that to him. He does something wrong, let him know," Johnson said .
Bryant's emphasis on effort has left a lasting impact on aspiring players and fans alike. To this day, Kobe is viewed as a beacon of perseverance and willpower not only by his former teammates but also by every person he has influenced.
Related: "Everybody wants to be Kobe, but they don't want to put in the time" - Ex-Lakers coach Del Harris reflects on Kobe Bryant's work ethic
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