Growing up, Patrick Mahomes would tune into a Los Angeles Lakers game and see greatness on the court. The third-year Kansas City Chiefs quarterback grew up idolizing Kobe Bryant, who displayed greatness through his work ethic, preparation and results.
Bryant and his daughter Gianna tragically passed away on Sunday in a helicopter crash outside of Los Angeles. He was 41. Gianna was 13.
A day after Bryant's passing, the Chiefs superstar took the podium at the Super Bowl media availability to address the late Black Mamba's impact he had on his life. Said Mahomes, via Mitchel Summers of WIBW Sports:
“I wasn't lucky enough to meet Kobe, but the impact that he made in my life, it was huge. The way he was able to go about every single day when I was a kid, and the work ethic and the intensity that he had to be great every single day… Even to this day, I still watch videos on YouTube the day before games, just listen to him talk and how he puts everything into perspective of being great on- and off-the-field with his kids and his business ventures and then obviously his play. It's a tragic thing. Prayers to his family, but he made a huge impact in my life.”
Bryant was a five-time NBA Finals champion. He was one of the best players to ever step onto a basketball court. In 2020, Mahomes is trying to replicate Bryant's champion status as he hopes for a Super Bowl win when the Chiefs take on the San Francisco 49ers. Kobe's ability to influence others had a role in why Mahomes is playing on the biggest stage.
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