Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant was undoubtedly one of the heroes of Golden State Warriors star Klay Thompson when he was growing up.

On Friday, Thompson took to Instagram to show off a signed copy of Bryant's book “The Mamba Mentality” which was apparently given to him by a friend.

Inside the cover of the book, Bryant wrote “To Klay, Rings, Rings, Rings, Rings…” — likely a homage to the three championships that Thompson had already won throughout his career with the Warriors, as well as both players' relentless drive to win championships. It was also a clear reflection of Bryant's Mamba Mentality.

 

Interestingly, as can be seen in the caption, Klay Thompson noted that it was the “greatest gift” he has ever received.

Kobe Bryant wrote his first book “The Mamba Mentality: How I Play” in 2018. It detailed his accomplished career, as well as his signature mindset when it came to basketball and life in general.

RECOMMENDED (Article Continues Below)
Klay Thompson and Chris Paul

Benedetto Vitale ·

Golden State Warriors Guard Stephen Curry with former executive Jerry West

Fabian Diego Miguel de la Paz ·

Stephen Curry, Warriors, Curry Warriors, NBA playoffs, Curry clutch

Jackson Stone ·

Unfortunately, Bryant passed away last January after he was involved in a tragic helicopter crash in Calabasas, California. The eight other passengers in the accident, including Kobe's daughter Gianna Bryant, were also not able to survive.

As for Thompson, the five-time All-Star has yet to play in a game this season after he suffered a torn ACL during Game 6 of the NBA Finals in 2019.

With Thompson out and fellow backcourt superstar Steph Curry also missing significant time, Golden State has quickly gone from title contenders to bottom feeders as they posted a league-worst 15-50 record prior to the season being postponed in March.