Most NBA players have their Kobe Bryant moment when they’re already in the league. Some talk about defending Kobe’s patented fadeaway, while others are just in awe of his presence.
Russell Westbrook had his Black Mamba moment way before he entered the league. When he was about 17 or 18, Westbrook faced the late Laker legend in one of the many pickup games at UCLA.
In an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live, Westbrook narrated matching up with Kobe and what he picked up from the experience.
"This particular day, Kobe came. I'm super hyped and super juiced,” the explosive guard said . “I'm super hyped and just excited to compete. To me, Kobe is the best in the world. Me and Kobe, [we were not] going back and forth, because he was basically killing me. But it's okay."
Russ went head-to-head with his idol
Not only did Westbrook face his idol, but the experience showed him the blueprint to success in basketball and life. We can safely say that he picked up the Los Angeles Lakers icon's trademark ferocious attitude.
"He was competing like it was the NBA Finals,” Russ said. “To me it was so inspiring because it allowed me to understand, this is what you need to be like regardless of where you at, what you're doing... I took that attitude and ran with it."
A few years after his encounter with Kobe, the UCLA product was drafted fourth overall in the 2008 NBA Draft. And right from the get-go, the whole world saw his athleticism, intensity, and passion for basketball. No one has ever seen a player like Russ whose ferociousness never withered, even if he is now in the downward spiral of his career.
Related: Larry Jordan talks about the perks of being MJ's brother: "I would`ve lost my license except the district attorney was a big North Carolina and Michael Jordan fan"
Kobe and Russ’ similarities
When Kobe and Russ eventually faced each other in the NBA, there were times that the Black Mamba felt he was looking in the mirror. In an interview, the Lakers guard talked about the similarities he saw in OKC youngster.
"A ton. I didn't smile much on the court either. But he plays the game with such an energy, and such an aggressiveness. I think it needs to be appreciated. He needs to be appreciated. He's not out there trying to be cute with the basketball. He's not out there trying to make friends,” Bean responded .
Bryant was also in awe of Westbrook’s seemingly unlimited stamina. The 2017 NBA Most Valuable Player was always full speed ahead. It didn’t matter if it was a preseason game or the NBA Finals.
Amid the slander thrown at Russ, there’s no question that he’s one of the greatest who ever touched the basketball. If he has Kobe’s seal of approval, nothing else matters.
Related: "Once you master the mental part of the game, you become a master of the game of basketball" - When Paul Pierce gave Kobe ultimate respect before the 2010 Finals
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