Ahead of Kobe Bryant's jersey retirement with the Los Angeles Lakers on Monday night, Golden State Warriors star forward Kevin Durant had much time to reflect on his interactions with the future Hall of Famer.

Following Saturday's practice, Durant divulged that he had dinner with Bryant where they discussed many things concerning the NBA and life after his playing days. It was a deep and thorough conversation where the 29-year-old stated that he took away a strong message from the sit-down, according to Melissa Rohlin of Bay Area News Group.

“Always learn and grow. Always be a sponge and be curious. Whether it’s about the game, off the court, on the court, just be curious and always grow. Always want to grow as a man, as a person, as a player. It’s pretty easy to see that when you’re meeting Kobe.”

 In the latter part of his career, Kobe Bryant had become more of an open book with his knowledge and experience on and off the court with other players in the league. Kevin Durant was one of those key players that levitated toward him for advice or guidance.
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In the last couple of years, the Warriors star has certainly taken that to heart as he has made investments off the court in companies to ensure his financial stability away from the game and after his playing days. Meanwhile, he has continued to play at a high level that saw him earn his first NBA title after leading the Warriors that resulted in an NBA Finals MVP award.
With Kobe Bryant's guidance, Kevin Durant will likely head into the second chapter of his career more prepared for what lies ahead both on and off the court.