With the 2014-15 NBA season approaching in 34 days, former Lakers coach and Knicks president Phil Jackson talked about numerous topics including Kobe Bryant in a recent interview with New York Post’s Steve Serby.
When asked if Kobe Bryant was the model for Carmelo Anthony, Jackson said no player — even Michael Jordan — can model their behavior after the five-time champion:
Q: Is Kobe Bryant the model for Carmelo Anthony?
A: No. No one can approach that. I don’t expect anybody to be able to model their behavior after that, although Kobe modeled his behavior a lot about Michael Jordan, but he went beyond Michael in his attitude towards training, and I know Mike would probably question me saying that, but he did.
After coaching two of the greatest players in NBA history, Jackson shared some new information about Kobe’s attitude towards training. The five-time champion’s work ethic is respected throughout the NBA and Jackson’s praise only adds to his future Hall of Fame career.
While Kobe suffered a devastating Achilles injury, Jeanie Buss recently shared that Jackson knew it would take a year for the five-time champion to fully recover, but has confidence he will return at a high level. Although there are questions about his return, Kobe has acknowledged he won’t be the same player, but will adjust his game to be just as great.
Appearing in just six games last season, Bryant averaged 13.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 6.3 assists.
[divide]Kobe Bryant’s Big Drop In Sports Illustrated’s 2014 NBA Player Rankings