Latest news with #MambaMentality
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Kobe Bryant said his mum, not his dad, shaped his on-court persona: "She's more like a pit bull"
The late Kobe Bryant was famous for his legendary determination and relentless drive on the basketball court. But where did that competitive spirit come from? Psychologists often point out that a person's core mentality is shaped during childhood, strongly influenced by their surroundings and especially by important figures like parents. Advertisement By that logic, one might assume that Kobe's father, Joe "Jellybean" Bryant — who had a long 16-year basketball career, including six years in the NBA — was the main influence on his mindset, passing on lessons from his own experience. However, that is actually a misconception. Kobe himself said his mother, Pamela Bryant, had the biggest impact on how he carried himself during games. Inside the Mamba Mentality When you think of elite athletes known for their unique mindset, a few iconic names stand out — Cristiano Ronaldo, Serena Williams, Tom Brady, Novak Djokovic or Michael Jordan. However, only a handful have managed to turn their mentality into a lasting legacy. Bryant, a legend for the Los Angeles Lakers, not only did this — he gave it a name: the Mamba Mentality. Advertisement Mamba is a deadly snake known for its speed, precision and lethal power. Kobe adopted this symbol not just as his nickname but also as a way to express a sharp and focused mindset. For the NBA's 2008 Most Valuable Player, being the "Black Mamba" meant using such a mindset in every part of life — something he often spoke about before his tragic death in a helicopter accident in late January 2020. "[It] isn't about seeking a result — it's more about the process of getting to that result," Bean said about the Mamba Mentality. "It's about the journey and the approach. It's a way of life. I do think that it's important, in all endeavors, to have that mentality. Bryant carried this mindset to the court, showing relentless resilience, a strong work ethic and a fierce competitive spirit. These qualities played a big part in why he became a five-time NBA champion, two-time Finals MVP, 14-time All-Star, nine-time Defensive First Team member,and two-time scoring champion. Advertisement Related: "They had it on the wall, in my mirror when I woke up" - Jalen Brunson says his parents instilled in him the six-word mantra that has fueled his NBA success The influence of Kobe's mom and dad Roland Lazenby's 2016 book, "Showboat: The Life of Kobe Bryant," provides a deep understanding of how Kobe's distinctive mindset was formed. In the book, a revealing quote from the NBA legend dating back to 1999 highlights the unique influence both of his parents had on him, ultimately shaping his on-court persona. "From the enthusiasm aspect, his love to play, I'm more like my father. But on the court, I'm more like my mother," explained Bean. Advertisement Kobe's dad, who passed away in July 2024, sparked his early passion for basketball. They watched and analyzed game footage together, attended Joe's games, and even met NBA legends like Magic Johnson — their favorite player — and the Showtime Lakers squad. However, since "Jellybean," a 6'9" forward, was often away traveling as a professional basketball player, they couldn't spend as much time together as they wanted. As a result, Kobe became closer to his mother instead. "Bryant would later be known for the basketball bond with his father. But, with the father's celebrity and the frequent travel of a professional athlete during the son's formative years, it was understandable that Kobe Bean's earliest and closest bond would form with Pam," wrote Lazenby. Pam's pit bull mentality Talking about his mother, now 71, Bean described her as fiercely competitive — a real force of nature. These days, NBA players often call themselves "dogs" to show their toughness and drive, but Pamela had that same fighting spirit long before it was a trend. Advertisement "She's more like a pit bull. Her temper is like that. Very competitive," Kobe emphasized. During those early years, they had a close bond. It was then that young Bryant took on many of his mother's traits, especially her determination and strong drive — qualities that stood out more than his father's laid-back attitude. "Mother and son shared pleasant personalities for the most part, right down to demeanors that could turn surprisingly cold in a flash. That coldness could be startlingly off-putting to those who encountered it. And, combined with their capacity for sudden, sharp anger, both mother and son would use it to define the parameters of their lives. The primary driving element, however, was the perfectionism," states "Showboat: The life of Kobe Bryant." This drive for perfection, instilled by Pam, became a defining element of Kobe's remarkable 20-year NBA career. Advertisement Lazenby concluded that much of the basketball icon's success stemmed from the powerful influence of the woman who raised him, stating, "In terms of Bryant's achievement, it's fair to say in so many ways, the mother made the man." Family feud Despite growing closer at the time and ultimately sharing many similarities, it didn't help the relationship in the long run. The turning point came after Bryant married Vanessa Urbieta Cornejo in April 2001 — something Pamela and Joe disapproved of, partly because of the now-widow's Latina background. They ultimately decided to skip the wedding. The conflict intensified in 2013 when Beans' parents tried to sell memorabilia from his career, including a Lakers championship ring, without his knowledge. This betrayal prompted their son to sue them, after which Pamela and Joe issued a public apology for the pain and misunderstanding caused. Advertisement Before Kobe's tragic death in 2020, there were hopeful signs of reconciliation. "The Black Mamba" reportedly made efforts to rebuild his relationship with his parents, with reports of affectionate moments such as a warm embrace with "Jellybean" at a basketball camp. Still, after the helicopter crash that took the Lakers legend, his daughter Gianna, and seven others, Pamela was reportedly cut off entirely from his estate and is believed to have no contact with his remaining children. Related: Kobe Bryant put together his first scouting tape as a nine-year-old: "I had to wait for the tapes. I used to wait for the mail guy to drop them off"
Yahoo
28-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
"It's only right" - Paul George on naming his dog after Kobe Bryant
Some choices are especially meaningful, especially when they involve the people — or even pets — closest to us. That's true whether you're naming a child or, like Paul George, picking a name for a new family dog. Back in 2016, when the Indiana Pacers star welcomed a pit bull into his home, he faced the important decision of what to name his new companion. Reflecting on someone who had inspired him deeply, George ultimately chose to honor basketball legend Kobe Bryant by naming the dog after him. A pit bull called "Kobe" During the NBA offseason, George took to social media to share the story behind naming his newly adopted pit bull. Advertisement "Out of respect of the Mamba it's only right to name him KOBE!" he wrote alongside a video capturing the playful pup interacting with his young daughter. The post was accompanied by the hashtag #legend. "PG-13" also gave a shoutout to his "buddies" at @bullybeachouse for the "amazing" pit bull, noting how quickly the dog had become part of the family — something, he said, was clear from the joyful energy in the clip. The 6'8" swingman added that his other dog, King, was already eager to meet the newest addition to the household. Longtime followers of Paul's social media might remember King from a post back in 2014, when the then-Pacers player shared a short clip of them messing around on a basketball court. In the video, King playfully "challenged" him to a one-on-one matchup, with George captioning it by writing, "When ya mans want that one on one" — followed by the hashtag #GodSpeed. Advertisement Related: Andrei Kirilenko was ready to sacrifice millions to escape the Jazz in 2007: "I don't want to enjoy something that I don't deserve" Idolizing the "Black Mamba" George named his dog a few months after Bryant had retired from the NBA, ending his legendary 20-year career with the Los Angeles Lakers. That timing was likely no coincidence. Ultimately, this was just one of several ways "PG-13" paid tribute to his idol. Early in his NBA career, he wore the number 24 jersey, and upon joining the Sixers during the last offseason, he switched to #8 — both numbers made famous by the "Black Mamba." Growing up in Southern California, Paul saw Kobe as his greatest inspiration. Advertisement "Watching him win championships, I remember being at home just watching the games with my mom, my grandma, and my dad, and just idolizing him", he said in 2015, per Fox Sports. The 2019 steals leader admired Bryant, who won five championship titles, especially for his relentless drive, often called the "Mamba Mentality." "It always just came down to like, 'What would Kobe do in this situation? How would Kobe respond? How would Kobe act?'", recalled George, per GQ Magazine. Their connection went beyond simple admiration. After "PG-13" suffered a serious leg injury in 2014, the "Black Mamba" reportedly reached out to support him. Advertisement "What I learned from him was that you have to be the best teammate, be a student, and really watch the game. When you're out, you have to see it as a chance to learn and grow," the now 35-year-old said. Related: "My way of idolizing Kobe" - Paul George explains why he chose to wear No. 8 in Philly
Time of India
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Kobe Bryant's legacy lives on as Natalia graduates USC and Jeanie Buss honors the family onstage
(Image Source - Getty Images) Natalia Bryant's graduation at USC was already a big deal, but it took an unexpected turn that made it even more emotional. As she began this new chapter, a surprise moment happened that touched not just her family but everyone who was there. It was more than just a ceremony. Jeanie Buss's surprise appearance adds emotional weight to Natalia Bryant's USC graduation Natalia Bryant finished her studies at the University of Southern California, not just with academic accolades but also with the lasting legacy of her father, Kobe Bryant . The graduation on May 16 was made even more special when Jeanie Buss, the owner of the Los Angeles Lakers, showed up unexpectedly to present Natalia with her diploma—a moment that touched the Bryant family and highlighted the strong connection between the Lakers and the Bryants. She graduated with a film degree from USC's renowned School of Cinematic Arts, earning cum laude honors. The moment became even more meaningful when Jeanie Buss presented her diploma on stage. Vanessa Bryant took to Instagram to share this emotional moment and her thanks, "Legacy @nataliabryant ~ thank you @jeaniebuss for making this milestone even more special. #LakersFamily #USCGRAD #CumLaude." by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Accounting Automation Software Might Help You To Earn More Accounting Automation Software | Search ads Undo Natalia's graduation attire paid homage to her family's legacy. Her stole featured the "Cum Laude" distinction, her Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority letters, and the iconic Mamba logo—a tribute to her father Kobe and sister Gianna 'Gigi' Bryant, both of whom tragically passed away in 2020. The emblem, designed by Vanessa Bryant, symbolizes the " Mamba Mentality " and was placed over Natalia's heart, signifying her father's enduring presence in her life. Natalia balanced her academics with beginning a modelling career at USC. She partnered with IMG Models then walked Versace for Milan Fashion Week in 2024. Natalia thanks her family and friends for their incredible support along the road even with the demanding balancing act. Also Read: Boston Celtics May Break Up Their Core as Derrick White Becomes a Surprising Trade Candidate Graduating for Natalia Bryant was a celebration of her strength, family ties, and community support—not only a milestone. The event was a wonderful mirror of tenacity and Kobe Bryant's legacy thanks to Jeanie Buss's kind gesture and Natalia's acknowledgement to her father and sister. Get IPL 2025 match schedules , squads , points table , and live scores for CSK , MI , RCB , KKR , SRH , LSG , DC , GT , PBKS , and RR . Check the latest IPL Orange Cap and Purple Cap standings.
Yahoo
18-05-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Lakers Send 1-Word Message After Vanessa Bryant's Big Announcement
Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant is one of the greatest players in NBA history. Spending all 20 years of his career in LA, Bryant won five NBA championships and made 18 All-Star Game appearances. Retiring in 2016, he still ranks fourth on the league's all-time scoring list. Kobe and his daughter Gianna tragically passed away in a 2020 helicopter accident. They are survived by Vanessa Bryant and her oldest daughter, Natalia. The Bryant family has done incredible work to push forward Kobe's work off the court, notably through the Mamba & Mambacita Sports Foundation that aims to further the legacies of he and Gianna. Wall of remembrance for Kobe Bryant and Gianna Bryant.© Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images On Friday, Vanessa Bryant announced the exciting news that her daughter Natalia had graduated from USC. Advertisement "We're so proud of you @nataliabryant!" she wrote in an Instagram post. Among the comments was one from the official Lakers account. The team wrote, "Congratulations 🫶" Los Angeles Lakers congratulate Natalia / Instagram Bryant's legacy in Los Angeles and across the sports world continues to be felt. The Lakers have continued to honor him in different ways, including the recent unveiling of a statue outside of Arena (formerly known as Staples Center). Natalia, part of USC's 2025 graduating class, also announced her major accomplishment in a post on Instagram. Alongside her mother, Natalia has done incredible work with the Mamba & Mambacita Sports Foundation while completing her degree. This is just one of the ways the Bryant family has continued to positively impact the sports world, not just in Los Angeles, but all over. Related: Julius Randle Had Kobe Bryant Message Before Warriors-Timberwolves Game 5 Related: Shaquille O'Neal's Dwight Howard Gesture Turns Heads After NBA on TNT Absence
Time of India
08-05-2025
- Sport
- Time of India
'That's not the Mamba mentality': Kendrick Perkins shreds Jayson Tatum for failing to show killer instinct during Boston Celtics' struggles
Images via Brian Babineau, and Chris Marion/ Getty Images The Boston Celtics are in trouble. After two stunning losses at home to the New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference Semifinals , pressure is mounting fast on Jayson Tatum and the defending champions . Once seen as overwhelming favorites, the Celtics now trail 0-2 heading to Madison Square Garden, and former teammate-turned-analyst Kendrick Perkins isn't holding back. Operation Sindoor Operation Sindoor: Several airports in India closed - check full list Did Pak shoot down Indian jets? What MEA said India foils Pakistan's attack on Jammu airport: What we know so far With Game 3 set for Saturday, May 10, all eyes are on Tatum, who's been called out for failing to embody the mindset of his late mentor, Kobe Bryant . 'I don't see that dog in him': Kendrick Perkins slams Jayson Tatum's mentality On Wednesday, May 7, the Boston Celtics collapsed late in Game 2 at TD Garden, falling 91-90 after the New York Knicks closed on a blistering 23-6 run. It was a gut-punch loss, especially for a team that had swept New York during the regular season. But while the Knicks surged, Boston's brightest star dimmed. Jayson Tatum , Boston's go-to guy, has been a shell of his usual self, and the criticism is getting louder. ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins didn't mince words during an appearance on First Take, going directly at Tatum's lack of fire. 'That's not the ' Mamba Mentality .' Way far from it,' Perkins said on Thursday, referring to Tatum's self-professed connection to the late Kobe Bryant. 'He's been on record saying how he and Kobe Bryant's relationship was being a mentor to him.' STEPHEN A.'S NEW YORK KNICKS PRAYERS WERE ANSWERED! 🙏 'WE HAVE BEEN STARVING!' | First Take Perkins wasn't finished. On that same day's episode of Get Up, he added, 'At some point, Jayson Tatum's gotta say, 'I'm the best player on the floor. I cannot be guarded.'… He's one of the most elite scorers in the game today, and I just don't see that tenacity. I don't see that dog in him.' So far, the numbers back Perkins up. Tatum has been ice-cold through two games—just 28.6% from the field, including a brutal 5-for-19 outing in Game 2. His shooting woes mirror Boston's overall struggles to close out games. Despite averaging 26.8 points per game during the regular season, Tatum has yet to look like the superstar the Celtics need right now. The criticism isn't just about offense either. Perkins pointed to a lack of effort on both ends of the court. 'Last time I checked, Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown are supposed to be two-way players,' he said. 'Are they defending at a high level? I mean, at some point, it's time for Jayson Tatum to take that leap.' Also Read: Bold bet ends in painful reality: Paul Pierce walks 20 miles barefoot to work after Boston Celtics' shocking Game 2 loss vs. New York Knicks With the series shifting to New York for Game 3 on Saturday and Game 4 on Monday, the Celtics face a steep hill. Boston still has the firepower to turn things around, but it starts with their star. If Tatum doesn't bounce back in a big way, the defending champs could find their title defense cut short. Right now, the clock's ticking—and the critics aren't letting up.
