American movie actor Miles Teller couldn't believe it when the late Los Angeles Lakers icon Kobe Bryant shared in an interview with GQ back in 2015 that he was a fan of the actor's 2014 film entitled ‘Whiplash'. The two stars eventually formed a friendship and often communicated both personally and on social media afterward.

The two Philadelphia natives had an interesting exchange following a Lakers game shortly before Bryant retired from the league back in 2016.

“I read about where you talked about studying animals,” Teller recalled saying via Men's Health. “To learn from them and how they can conquer their environment and how predators work and how they adapt and overcome.”

“Miles, not just animals. Plants. Start studying plants,” Bryant said. “The world is your library.”

“I’m going to always remember that,” Teller responded.

Little did the actor know that it would be one of his last personal interactions with the former NBA MVP. Almost four years later, Teller penned a tribute to Bryant on Twitter shortly after his passing due to a fatal helicopter accident back in late January of 2020.

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The multi-titled actor was one of the many individuals who were graced by the Lakers great's presence when he was still around. It was indicative of the immense impact that the Lakers star had on whoever he crossed paths with in life.

With only memories to hold on to, Miles Teller is looking to draw inspiration from his encounters with his idol to continuously make his own mark in the entertainment industry.

Apart from Whiplash, Miles Teller is also known for his roles on The Spectacular Now, The Divergent Series, and Thank You For Your Service.