Hello everyone and welcome to the 24th annual Naismith Basketball Hall Of Fame Ceremony of the 21st century. Before the ceremony begins I would like to give you all a little something on someone who is widely considered to be the greatest player to ever where number 24 in NBA history, the late, great Kobe Bryant. Kobe Bryant had a mentality, more famously recognized as the Mamba Mentality. The Mamba Mentality means to be able to constantly try to be the best version of yourself. Kobe Bryant always dedicated himself fully to his profession and family. He was widely considered by most to be one of the hardest workers, and to have had the greatest work ethic in NBA history.
A quote by Kobe Bryant is, “Dedication makes dreams come true.” That quote means when you’re willing to dedicate yourself to your dreams and do what it takes to accomplish them, your dreams will eventually become a reality. That quote shows that difficult times will come your way, but even through challenging times, if you dedicate yourself you can get through the hardships. Kobe Bryant was a person who exemplified dedication. His commitment, and loyalty is what helped him to become a five time NBA champion, two time Finals MVP, and one time Regular Season MVP. He also had a great deal of other accomplishments that he received in his illustrious career.
Kobe Bryant said something else that really stuck with me.. He said, “The moment you give up, is the moment you let someone else win.” This quote means you should never give up, because those people who doubted, or said you wouldn’t amount to anything, would be proven cro be right. Instead, you have to keep going to prove your doubters wrong, and you have to keep going so when you succeed, and you do make it, it will all be worthwhile. You won’t be able to make it to the finale, if you don’t endure through what it takes to make it to the finale.This relates to Kobe Bryant, because even when he was doubted, and people said he wasn’t good enough, he just kept his head up. He would just prove to all the doubters that they were mistaken by what he did on the basketball court.
Another incredible quote said by Kobe Bryant was, “If you’re afraid to fail, then you’re probably going to fail.” I believe this is important, because failures are going to be apart of the success. Failures are going to be a part of the journey, so you can’t let the failures and troublesome times frighten you from doing other things. Also, if you’re worried about failing all the time, then how will it benefit you in any way. If anything it’s hurting you, and causing you to have a negative mindset. A negative mindset is something that you definitely don’t want while working to achieve a dream or goal. Kobe Bryant was great on and off the court. He was dedicated from the beginning to the end. He definitely left a great legacy behind, and has been greatly missed. I hope these quotes that were all written by Kobe Bryant were able to speak to you all today. Well without further adieu, our first hall of famer being inducted into the class of 24’ is…
Josiah Crossley – De La Salle Institute – DMSF Class of 2026
Image: Celeste Lecaroz