Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports

Kobe Bryant provided Gordon Hayward detailed notes on his basketball workouts

Originally posted on Fadeaway World | By Nico Martinez | Last updated Aug 1, 2024 11:41 PM ET

It was a moment of sudden bravery that gave Gordon Hayward the chance to consult with an NBA legend. In a recent appearance on the Podcast P Show, the newly retired NBA veteran told the story of when Kobe gave him a meticulous and detailed description of his workout routine.

"I was at my boy's wedding in New Port and Kobe had just retired. It was mentioned that he had lived around that area and I was like 'Wouldn't it be dope if I could work out with Kobe? Now I'm getting nervous like I'm texting a girl or something. Real talk, I got his number and sent him a text message that was like 'Hey man I would love to get in the gym with you.' When I was done I had him send me all of his workouts that he would do in the summers, he wrote the whole thing down in an email and sent it and at the end, he said 'I know it's a lot of s---, but if you're not trying to be the best, then what the f--- are you playing for?"

Lakers legend Kobe Bryant was rather famous for his "Mamba mentality" which involved a strict routine and a relentless work ethic. For 20 years, it sustained his Hall of Fame career and it became the standard for all stars who followed him.

Even when he retired from the NBA, Bryant continued to serve as a mentor and role model to others through his use of the media and private workouts with fellow players. While he may not have shared the court with Hayward that summer, he was quick and ready to offer his wisdom and some would say it changed his career.

Hayward, a 1x NBA All-Star, was 26 when Kobe retired and he was still a featured member of the Utah Jazz. It's no coincidence that the season after his chat with Kobe, he put together his only All-Star season with averages of 21.9 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game on 47% shooting.

Today, Hayward officially retired from the game and while he was never able to win a championship, he still left behind a career that Kobe would be proud of. He played the right way and formed habits through practice and repetition.

Even now, after Kobe is gone for good, his legacy carries on through those whose minds he touched. His knowledge of the game and approach to the sport invoke improvement in those he inspires and his impact month eBA culture itself cannot be undervalued.

Hayward saw Kobe's competitive nature first-hand in email form but Bryant was more than a man of words. He could always back up his talk with dominant play on the court and it was always devastating to opponents.

But whatever happened with Hayward that summer changed his that summer changed forever and unlocked a part of his game never seen before. It ultimately didn't last but it was a great thing that Bryant was willing to work with Hayward at all given his status as retired. As a natural winner and 5x NBA champion, Bryant had no obligation to pass on those tips but he just couldn't pass up the opportunity to help his fellow NBA athlete grow and expand his game.

This article first appeared on Fadeaway World and was syndicated with permission.

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