‘He Was There to Destroy You’: Devin Harris Recalls His Moment With Kobe Bryant Earlier in His Career

The 2020 Hall of Fame class was certainly the best in recent memory. Notably, Kobe Bryant, along with Tim Duncan and Kevin Garnett, led the line for this year’s ceremony. It was an emotional night for the players and fans alike because of the death of Bryant. Michael Jordan accompanied Vanessa Bryant as she gave a fitting tribute to ‘The Black Mamba’. People all around the world showered their praise on these players and lauded their achievements on the court. Meanwhile, Devin Harris was one amongst the many to reflect on what Kobe meant to him in his career.

Devin Harris reflects the influence of Kobe Bryant

Despite the tough circumstances amidst the pandemic, the Hall of Fame ceremony was a memorable event. Fans were clamoring to get the hottest tickets in town. Pundits compared the Hall of Fame class of 2020 to the class of 2009 for the talents they put on. Devin Harris was one player who leads the way in giving tributes.

“He was one of my favorite players growing up. I remember meeting him at ABC to camp for the first time, and just the impact he had on the game. I have had some fierce battles with him I mean, you know, the 63 points they had us in three quarters. I guard him a lot during that period, and you watched him put on that persona that hard you know surface for so long, and I can just remember the last couple years.

“I think it was just last we saw that come off, and you kind of saw not necessarily ‘The Black Mamba’ but you saw Kobe, and I think that was just kind of really special.

“He was there to destroy you, and he will let you know about that but then kind of see that softer side as he is going out just kind of you know tribute to you know the kind of person he was,” said Harris.

It was an apt eulogy for one of the most loved players in the game of basketball.

Bryant’s offensive exploits on the court

We have talked so much about the intangibles of Bryant, but his exploits on the court were legendary as ever. Even though he missed the MVP to Steve Nash in the 2005-06 season, Bryant put up career-high numbers by averaging over 35.4 points per game while attempting 10.2 free throws in a game.

These numbers were staggering because of the defensive talents during that era. His drives to the rim were mind-boggling, as was his will to win.

The determination to get inside and shoot the basket was commendable. Moreover, not being fazed by the opposition defenders was a key testament to his never-give-up attitude.

The legacy of Kobe Bryant will always remain in our hearts. The toughness of the guy was clear for people to see. ‘The Mamba’ will go down as the greatest players to play the game of basketball.

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