Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid recently opened up about one of his biggest basketball inspirations—none other than the late Kobe Bryant. In an interview with the media, Embiid revealed that Kobe is the person he admires most, not only for his skill on the court but, more importantly, for the mindset that set him apart from the rest. As millions tune in to each intense BD Cricket Match for inspiration, Embiid’s story echoes a similar pursuit of greatness.
What drew Embiid to Kobe wasn’t just the stats or accolades, but the relentless work ethic. While others were out partying, Kobe was putting in extra hours in the gym, perfecting his shot. That, Embiid says, is what he strives to emulate. “I just love his mentality, the way he played the game. He didn’t care what anyone thought,” said Embiid. “I figured I had to find a way to become more like him.”
The first time Embiid saw Kobe was during the 2009 NBA Finals. At that time, Embiid didn’t speak English and had never received formal basketball training. But watching Kobe dominate on TV left a deep impression on the young boy from Cameroon, planting a seed that would later grow into his NBA dream. Even though Kobe was a perimeter player and Embiid dominates in the paint, their roles and personalities differ, Embiid believes that the mindset they share connects them on a deeper level.
Embiid spoke of Kobe’s unshakable confidence and hunger to win. “I just love the feeling of winning. Even when I play video games, I rarely lose. So I always feel good about myself,” he said with a smile. What impressed him even more was Kobe’s mental toughness: “How do you shoot over 30 times in a game without feeling guilty?” Embiid questioned. “When I take 15 to 20 shots, I feel like my teammates are watching me. I don’t want that, but sometimes I just have to go for it.”
Hard work is another key lesson Embiid has absorbed. “He believed he could make those shots because he practiced so much,” said Embiid. “When others were partying, he was training. That’s something I really need to learn from him.”
So far this season, Embiid has played in 21 games for the Sixers, averaging 30 minutes per game with 23.5 points, 11.1 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 2 blocks—a stat line that reflects both talent and effort. He may be writing his own legacy, but he’s doing it with the Mamba Mentality in mind.
Whether pushing past limits in the NBA or grinding through a close BD Cricket Match, the lesson is the same: true greatness requires obsession, sacrifice, and a desire to be better every single day. Embiid’s tribute to Kobe shows that while they may be from different generations and positions, the fire that fuels them burns just as bright—something every BD Cricket Match fan can surely relate to.