Kevin Durant has frequently discussed the impact Kobe Bryant had on him as a player. However, Bryant’s impact was felt league-wide, specifically with Team USA.
Durant spoke on that influence with Boardroom.
“Being around somebody that competitive, and who literally doesn’t care about nothing else but what we’re doing at that moment, you feed off that type of energy,” Durant said. “Especially when you’re trying to reach the mountaintop. For him to be that locked in and that focused, you gotta fall in line. That was one of my best experiences being around somebody that great.”
Bryant passed away in January of 2020, so the chance for Durant to play alongside Bryant is gone, which is something Durant has lamented.
“I miss him, man. I miss being around him. I miss competing against him. I miss his presence,” Durant said in a 2021 press conference.
Bryant played with Team USA in both the 2008 and 2012 Olympics, winning gold medals in both. Durant played with Bryant in 2012. Bryant was known as one of the most competitive players in NBA history, and Durant got to witness it first-hand. He was known for his intense focus and unwavering determination, qualities that clearly rubbed off on his teammates, helping them achieve their goals. Durant has consistently credited Bryant’s influence for fostering a winning mentality within the team, which contributed significantly to their success. The lessons learned from Bryant continue to resonate with Durant and other players who had the opportunity to share the court with him.
