Current Chicago Bulls Head Coach Tom Thibodeau shares a special bond with NBA superstar Kobe Bryant.
The Los Angeles Laker trained with Thibodeau while in high-school, and worked on the basics with then Philadelphia 76ers’ assistant coach.
Bryant said Thibodeau helped him a lot with his game, and that he was “crucial” for his development as a basketball player.
Both men quickly developed a close relationship and they continued to work together through various drills and workouts.
Tom Thibodeau saw something special in Kobe Bryant at the tender age of 16 and 17. He was in awe about Kobe’s dedication and his passion for the game.
Tuesday night, the Chicago Bulls will travel to Los Angeles to face the Los Angeles Lakers.
Thibodeau and Bryant will face each other for the first time with both men at the pinnacle of their professions.