Byron Scott recently recalled one of Kobe Bryant’s most “gangster” moments — when Kobe tore his Achilles tendon, yet still walked to the free-throw line and calmly sank his shots before exiting the court. Scott explained:
“You watch Kobe get up because he thought somebody kicked him. Like anyone who tears their Achilles, they think they got hit or something. He got up, walked out, then walked back to the line. No grimacing, no pain showing—just pure disappointment, pissed off. Then he made the free throws and walked off by himself. He didn’t get anyone to help him, even though you can’t really walk normally with a torn Achilles. That’s the most gangster thing I’ve ever seen on a basketball court. You will never see anyone do that again.”
Scott contrasted Kobe’s toughness with recent incidents in the league, mentioning Jayson Tatum’s injury, where the pain was clearly visible and he had to be taken off in a wheelchair.
Former NBA player Olden Polynice shared his perspective on Kobe’s legendary grit, recounting moments from the infamous Shaq-Kobe altercation, emphasizing how Kobe always handled tough situations with a unique toughness and respect.
Other NBA Notes and Reactions
- Lev Akabas likened an epic Knicks-Pacers game to a Grand Slam final, highlighting the intensity and historical significance of recent NBA clashes.
- Micah Adams pointed out Tyrese Haliburton’s rare clutch shooting in the 2025 playoffs, noting he has more go-ahead shots in the final 5 seconds than Kobe had in his entire career.
- Alex Caruso was spotted wearing special Kobe Bryant-themed sneakers to start the NBA Finals, honoring the late legend.
Jayson Tatum’s Recovery Update
Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum shared updates on his recovery, indicating progress as he gets closer to returning to the court after injury. Orthopedic expert Dr. Kevin R. Stone highlighted the importance of early rehabilitation in speeding up recovery and improving outcomes for athletes like Tatum.
