Former NBA player Jeremy Lin recently shared some revealing insights into his time playing alongside the legendary Kobe Bryant during the 2014-2015 season with the Los Angeles Lakers. One particular practice session stands out, revealing Kobe Bryant’s unique approach to pushing his teammates beyond their limits.
Kobe Bryant: The Relentless Worker and Motivator
Kobe Bryant’s reputation as a relentless worker is nothing short of legendary. Throughout his storied career, spend countless hours refining his skills and striving for greatness. This work ethic was not only a personal philosophy but a guiding principle that he extended to his teammates.
Lin reminisced about their intense practice sessions, where Bryant’s leadership and motivational prowess were on full display. Bryant’s drive to be the best pushed those around him to elevate their game, even if it meant rigorous drills.
The 50-Minute Defensive Grind
One practice session, in particular, left an indelible mark on Jeremy Lin. He recalled how, during their first practice together, Bryant orchestrated a grueling 50 minutes of defensive drills without ever touching the ball. Defensive stances, closeouts, hip rotations, and full-court slides dominated the session.
As Lin recounted,
“We did 50 minutes of defense, we didn’t touch the ball. It was defensive stances, closeouts, turning your hips, and full-court slides. For 50 minutes.”
This practice session left Lin and his teammates bewildered. However, it was emblematic of Bryant’s commitment to strengthening every facet of the game. This relentless focus on defense left an impression on Lin, altering his perspective on the importance of this oft-neglected aspect of basketball.
A Different Approach: Why Bryant’s Methods Stood Out
Kobe Bryant’s approach to practice might seem unconventional, especially in comparison to the practices of other franchises. Bryant’s emphasis on defense revealed his holistic understanding of the sport. Defense, after all, comprises half of the game, yet it’s often overshadowed by flashy offensive plays and scoring.
His methods may have surprised some players, especially those accustomed to different training routines, but they undoubtedly contributed to his own success and the success of those he mentored.
“Practices are meant to be competitive. If your practices aren’t more competitive than the games themselves, you are doing the wrong thing. You show up and you work.” –Kobe Bryant
A Paradigm Shift for Jeremy Lin
Lin admitted that before that first practice with Bryant, he hadn’t truly appreciated the significance of defense in his skill development. He confessed to rarely dedicating hours to honing his defensive abilities. However, the 50-minute defensive drill proved to be a turning point in Lin’s career.
Jeremy Lin vs. Kobe Bryant is one of the best duels of all-time pic.twitter.com/LL4sQdI0ZD
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He shared,
“It was so tiring but it changed my mindset because I was like, ‘Yeah, why don’t we do more of that?’ Defense is half of the basketball game.”
Amidst their on-court challenges and differing perspectives on the game, Jeremy Lin and Kobe Bryant’s relationship defied these obstacles. Their film analysis debates showcased their passion, despite differences.
