'When he was younger, there was only one side to him,' says an NBA source of the star's tough reputation early in his career
less than a week ago, friends and former colleagues within the National Basketball Association are remembering how the star once transformed as a player and a person.as a 17-year-old basketball prodigy in 1996, quickly gained a reputation as a “relentless” player on the court.
“In the beginning, he reminded everyone of Jordan, just the way he would carry himself,” recalls retired NBA referee Derrick Stafford, who officiated over more than 60 of Bryant’s games. “He was a hard-nosed player but he was fair. You had to respect him. Kobe was no-nonsense.”Remembering Kobe Bryant: Inside the Life and Legacy of the Sports Icon and ‘Intensely Proud’ DadIn his early years and heyday, the star player could also be “really tough to deal with,” at times, says another NBA source.
This came from Bryant’s intense drive and overwhelming desire to win. “He was really just a one-of-a-kind athlete and man,” says another NBA insider. “I think what made him different was that he was able to sense and smell other people’s weaknesses. That made him a step above.
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