Throughout his career, Stephen A. Smith has spoken to some amazing athletes. Furthermore, thanks to his standing as an incredibly famous journalist, he has a lot of relationships. Overall, this can be overwhelming especially when you give your opinion for a living. Not everyone is going to be okay with what you have to say about them, and Smith has certainly experienced that. For instance, Smith has been very forthcoming about his relationship with none other than Kobe Bryant. Over the years, this relationship hasn't always been perfect.
However, Smith has always been adamant about the mutual respect these two had for one another. Kobe was a master of his domain and Smith was the same in the world of sports commentary. Moreover, the two would enjoy talking to each other at events and always made it a point to say hello. During a recent appearance on the Full Send Podcast, Smith told an incredible story about the last time he saw Kobe. Overall, it was very heartwarming, and it will make fans miss the Lakers legend a whole lot more.
Stephen A. & Kobe
“Kobe Bryant & I saw each other 3 weeks before he died," Smith began. "We were at a party… We kept hugging each other for like 15 min… What I remember about that night is I had never seen him that happy ever in all the years that I knew him.” It is a sad story for Smith to have told considering the tragedy that would take place a few weeks later. As many are aware, Kobe and his daughter Gianna died in a helicopter crash. Additionally, seven others lost their lives, making it a horrific tragedy that affected so many.
Based on the way Smith talks about Kobe, you can tell just how much he loved the former NBA star. Kobe Bryant was a very special person, and anyone who met him can attest to that. Overall, there is no doubt that Kobe's legacy will be kept alive forever. Hopefully, the NBA continues to honor him appropriately. Let us know what you thought of Stephen A.'s story, in the comments below.
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