Ja Morant's favorite Kobe Bryant moment

While learning the game of basketball, Ja Morant drew inspiration from one of the greatest players in the NBA at the time.

The former Murray State standout cites Kobe Bryant as one of his biggest influences. Kobe's impact on Morant is evident every time the Memphis Grizzlies point guard steps onto the court: Ja plays basketball boldly and is determined to prove his doubters wrong.

Kobe, who died in a tragic helicopter crash in 2020, was and still is a role model for many up-and-coming players in the NBA and worldwide because he was the best example of a player's hard work paying off.

Bryant had natural talent, but his approach to basketball—his Black Mamba mentality—made him one of the greatest. Morant was so inspired by Kobe's approach to the game that he tattooed it on his back.

Ja's favorite Kobe moment

Bryant played his entire 20-year career with the Los Angeles Lakers and achieved everything a player can dream of. He won five NBA championships and was an 18-time All-Star, 15-time member of the All-NBA Team, 12-time member of the All-Defensive Team, the 2008 NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP), and a two-time NBA Finals MVP.

The Black Mamba had countless electrifying , dramatic , unforgettable moments in his illustrious career. For Morant, one moment stands out and embodies what Kobe was all about.

"When he tore his rotator cuff, and then went on and played with his left hand, and hit the turn fade with the left," Morant said in an Instagram video. "It's just that Mamba mentality, that killer mentality, never want to give up, always fighting. And that's pretty much how I carry myself."

Embracing the Mamba mentality

Morant has always operated with a chip on his shoulder. He was not the most popular prospect in high school, which led him to play for a mid-major school like Murray State, which motivated him to prove everyone wrong.

Behind the scenes, Morant is one of the hardest workers on the Grizzlies, as he consistently improves his game. Ja also has natural leadership qualities, so the rest of the Grizzlies have been influenced by his attitude. Even incoming 2024/25 rookie Zach Edey has been seen in practice with the franchise point guard , learning from Ja about what it takes to succeed in the league.

Morant has had his fair share of controversies away from the game but is locked in coming into the 24/25 season. Ja and the Grizzlies have a point to prove, given their disastrous 2023/24 season. The two-time All-Star is ready to lead his team and compete against the best teams in the Western Conference.

If Morant wants to live up to Kobe's standards, he must lead Memphis to postseason success. It won't be easy, but Bryant never turned down a challenge, and neither should Ja.

Related: Ranking the best seasons in Grizzlies franchise history