The Last Thing Kobe Bryant Said About Stephen Curry — His Final Words SHOCKED the NBA
When the basketball world lost Kobe Bryant in January 2020, it not only mourned a larger-than-life athlete but also a passionate student and teacher of the game. Among the many players Kobe admired and frequently discussed, Stephen Curry stood out — and the last words Bryant publicly shared about the Warriors’ superstar reveal just how much respect he held for Curry’s game and his impact on basketball.
A Meeting of Generational Talents
For years, fans and pundits debated the connections and contrasts between Kobe Bryant and Stephen Curry. While Kobe was renowned for his relentless work ethic, fundamental mastery, and “Mamba Mentality,” Curry reshaped the NBA with his dazzling handles and unmatched three-point shooting range. Despite their stylistic differences, Kobe recognized something truly special in Curry’s approach — and was one of the first legends to openly praise Steph’s transformative influence on the league.
Kobe’s Final On-Air Remarks About Curry
In an interview just months before his passing, Kobe was asked about the current state of the NBA and which players impressed him the most. His answer was direct and heartfelt: “Steph is different. He’s changed the game for everyone. There’s no one like him, and what he does out there is pure artistry. The way he shoots, moves without the ball, and empowers his team — it’s inspiring.”
Kobe went on to highlight the ripple effects Curry had on future generations: “Every kid now thinks they can be like Steph — they work on their handle and their shooting from deep. When you force an entire league to adapt to you, that’s real greatness, man.”
A Moment That Shocked the NBA
What truly shocked fans and many NBA insiders was Kobe’s humility and admiration for Curry, given Kobe’s reputation for fierce competition and pride. In his final remarks about Steph, Bryant was reported to have said privately to friends and young players: “Don’t just study my moves. Study Steph. Master your shot, be unselfish, and never stop moving. That’s what makes him deadly.”
Curry’s Reaction and Mutual Respect
After Kobe’s passing, Stephen Curry paid tribute by sharing how much those words — and Kobe’s mentorship — meant to him. “Kobe was always honest with me, and when someone like that gives you their respect, it’s the ultimate compliment,” Curry told reporters. He added that every time he steps onto the floor, he carries Kobe’s influence with him, both as a competitor and
as a student of the game.
The Legacy of Kobe’s Final Words
Kobe Bryant’s last words about Stephen Curry continue to echo through the basketball community, surprising many with their generosity and depth. Bryant, notorious for his laser-focused confidence and competitive fire, could have reserved his highest praise solely for players who mirrored his own style. Instead, he used his final moments speaking about the
as someone striving to inspire the next generation of players.
A Lasting Legacy in Words
Kobe Bryant’s final comments on Stephen Curry underscored more than admiration—they were an acknowledgment of a seismic shift in basketball itself. For a five-time champion and relentless competitor like Kobe to herald Curry’s influence, it
as a role model for the next generation of stars.
A Lasting Impact
Kobe’s endorsement of Curry did more than just shock the league; it bridged two NBA eras defined by innovation and work ethic. Bryant’s praise affirmed Curry’s impact, with coaches and players alike re-examining the importance of shooting, movement, and creative leadership.
As Curry continues to break records and inspire young athletes across the world, Kobe’s final words serve as a powerful reminder of mutual respect between legends—and the ever-evolving beauty of the game they loved. The NBA, and its millions of fans, will not soon forget the moment Kobe Bryant tipped his cap to the player who truly changed the game.
