One thing you gotta know about me is I have absolutely no filter. I have no problem saying what the hell I think of someone.
I had to organize things. So I created the ‘Black Mamba.’ So Kobe has to deal with these issues, all the personal challenges. The Black Mamba steps on the court and does what he does. I’m destroying everybody that steps on the court.
My role is to make sure we’re moving in the right direction, getting points, rebounds, steals, assists, and providing leadership.
It’s different from being 21 and you think there’s an endless amount of opportunities. At 33, the ending is much, much closer.
You want me to own a team and deal with these rich, spoiled, stubborn athletes, and try to get them to perform? No thank you.
The odd thing is that I wound up learning more about the world around me by having a singular focus inside of me.
People say bad things about you in the paper on Monday, and then on Wednesday, you’re the greatest thing since sliced bread. I’ve seen that cycle, so why would I be nervous about it happening?
Learn to love the hate. Embrace it. Enjoy it. You earned it. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion and everyone should have one about you.
It doesn’t bother me at all. Do I hold any hard feelings? Not at all. Life is too short to sit around and hold grudges. I don’t hold any whatsoever.
There’s certain players that I’ve made cry. If I can make you cry by being sarcastic, then I really don’t want to play with you in the playoffs.
I’m here. I’m not going anywhere. No matter what the injury—unless it’s completely debilitating—I’m going to be the same player I’ve always been. I’ll figure it out. I’ll make some tweaks, some changes, but I’m still coming.
