Jazz G Jordan Clarkson Shows Love to Kobe Bryant: ‘Definitely My GOAT'

On what would have been Kobe Bryant’s 45th birthday today, the NBA community has been showering the former Los Angeles Lakers legend with some deep adoration. With the greatness and dedication that he brought to the game, there are countless players and people he had an impact on throughout his time in the league and onwards.

The Utah Jazz G Jordan Clarkson spent some time with Bryant earlier in his career during his tenure in Los Angeles, spending two seasons together in the same backcourt from 2014 to 2016. Clarkson was still getting his footing set as a name in this league, and Kobe proved to be an immensely helpful mentor to his development.

Clarkson got asked about the impact Bryant had on his game during his time in Los Angeles at the FIBA World Cup:

Jordan Clarkson on Kobe and his influence on the game 🐍 ♾️#FIBAWC pic.twitter.com/4lsOkg0dkO
— FIBA (@FIBA) August 23, 2023

“It meant a lot. You know, being around him in my earlier years. Definitely my GOAT. A guy that I learned a lot from. He taught me so much. He means a lot to my career and the game of basketball. Period.”

As a young, up-and-coming player in Los Angeles, having a guide like Kobe in your corner leading the way is likely the best you could have. It is tough to find a player more battle-tested and dedicated to the game than Kobe was, and he ensured to embrace that mindset in his teachings to the next generation.

Since departing from Los Angeles, Clarkson has become a Sixth Man of the Year winner in 2021, also rising into one of the better scorers in his position. He’s yet another product of some of the young players Kobe worked with during his later years with the Lakers who have gone on to found their NBA success after their experiencea with the Black Mamba.

The NBA icon who touched so many lives will continue to find more admiration around the league community on his birthday and unofficial holiday of 8/24 on Thursday.

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