Kobe Bryant Would Definitely Take Austin Reaves Under His Wing: A Legacy of Mentorship

If there’s one thing Kobe Bryant was known for beyond his relentless work ethic and competitive spirit, it was his willingness to share his knowledge and mentor the next generation of players. Throughout his career, Kobe made it a point to pass on his wisdom to younger athletes, and many young stars in the NBA looked up to him for guidance. If Kobe were still around today, there’s no doubt he would take Austin Reaves under his wing.

Austin Reaves, the 25-year-old shooting guard for the Los Angeles Lakers, has quickly established himself as one of the team’s most promising young players. With his impressive skill set, hustle, and ability to step up in big moments, Reaves has earned a reputation as one of the rising stars in the NBA. And while Reaves has already shown that he’s capable of big-time performances, there’s no question that a mentor like Kobe Bryant would take him to another level.

Kobe’s Impact on Young Players

Kobe Bryant had a unique way of elevating the players around him. His intense focus on developing the mental side of the game, as well as his commitment to constant improvement, made him a mentor to many younger players. Stars like Devin Booker, Kyrie Irving, and Giannis Antetokounmpo have all spoken about how impactful Kobe’s mentorship was on their careers. Kobe wasn’t just about teaching skills; he was about teaching the mindset and mentality that led to his success.

In Reaves, Kobe would see a player with the potential to develop into much more than he already is. Austin’s ability to shoot the ball, create plays, and defend, combined with his determination and unselfishness, are qualities Kobe would undoubtedly admire. But it would be Reaves’ mentality—the way he approaches each game, staying focused and showing no fear in high-pressure situations—that would likely catch Kobe’s attention.

What Kobe Could Teach Austin Reaves

Mamba Mentality: Kobe’s infamous “Mamba Mentality” was all about embracing challenges, pushing through adversity, and relentlessly working to improve. For Reaves, learning how to handle the highs and lows of an NBA season from someone like Kobe would be invaluable. The mental toughness that Kobe exuded throughout his career is something Reaves could definitely benefit from, especially as he continues to establish himself in the league.

Work Ethic: One of the defining features of Kobe Bryant’s career was his insane work ethic. He was known to be one of the first players to arrive at the gym and the last to leave, always looking for ways to improve his game. Reaves, who already has a strong work ethic, could learn from Kobe how to maximize his training and continue to refine every aspect of his skill set. Kobe would likely push him to work on his conditioning, footwork, and basketball IQ, encouraging him to take every opportunity to learn and improve.

Clutch Play: Kobe was famous for his ability to step up in the clutch. Whether it was hitting game-winning shots or taking on a defensive assignment in crucial moments, Kobe was never afraid to take on the big moments. Austin Reaves has already shown signs of stepping up in big games, but learning from someone who lived for those moments would be invaluable. Kobe would teach him how to maintain composure under pressure, trust his abilities, and make the right decisions in crunch time.

Basketball IQ and Vision: Kobe was also known for his sharp basketball IQ. He could break down the game in ways that few others could, and he had an exceptional ability to read defenses and make the right plays. Reaves, who has shown flashes of impressive court vision, could benefit greatly from Kobe’s mentorship in this area. Learning how to read defenses, understand matchups, and anticipate what’s coming next would elevate Reaves’ overall game and make him even more of a threat on the floor.

Why Austin Reaves Would Be a Great Protégé for Kobe

Austin Reaves has the kind of attitude and work ethic that would make him an ideal mentee for Kobe Bryant. Reaves, who went undrafted before earning a spot with the Lakers, knows what it’s like to fight for respect and prove himself. His journey in the NBA mirrors the kind of underdog story that Kobe appreciated and could relate to, considering his own path to superstardom. Reaves’ hunger to improve and his willingness to do whatever it takes to help his team succeed would resonate deeply with Kobe.

Additionally, Reaves’ calm demeanor under pressure is something that would likely impress Kobe. Whether it’s hitting key shots in the fourth quarter or drawing fouls in crunch time, Reaves seems unfazed by the stakes. This is exactly the kind of mentality that Kobe would nurture, helping him refine his game even further.

A Legacy of Mentorship

Kobe’s impact on the game is still felt today, and his legacy of mentorship will continue to influence young players for years to come. If he were still around, there’s no doubt that Austin Reaves would benefit immensely from his guidance. From learning the Mamba Mentality to refining his skills, Reaves would have the opportunity to grow into an even more well-rounded and formidable player under Kobe’s tutelage.

As the Lakers continue their journey with their young talent, it’s easy to imagine what might have been if Kobe Bryant had been there to mentor Austin Reaves. But even without him, the spirit of the Mamba Mentality lives on through players like Reaves, who embody the same drive to improve and the same passion for the game that Kobe instilled in those lucky enough to learn from him.