In the annals of basketball history, few relationships have captivated fans like that between Kevin Garnett and Kobe Bryant.
Both legends of the game, their careers were marked by fierce competitiveness and mutual respect. In his new book, “KG: A to Z: An Uncensored Encyclopedia of Life, Basketball, and Everything in Between,” Garnett opens up about their first meeting, offering a glimpse into the beginning of a storied camaraderie.
The First Time KG Met Kobe
The setting was the Spectrum in Philadelphia, during Garnett’s rookie season. The Spectrum’s dark and dramatic lighting set the stage for what would become a memorable interaction between two future NBA icons. Garnett had just finished a game and walked into the locker room, only to find a young Kobe Bryant sitting on his stool.
“Whassup, KG,” Kobe greeted him, brimming with confidence. “I’m Kobe.”
“Whassup,” Garnett replied, immediately questioning why Kobe was in his seat. “But why is yo ass in my seat? Get the f–k outta my seat.”
Kobe quickly jumped up, and they both shared a chuckle. Garnett was struck by Kobe’s energy and enthusiasm. He was animated, almost childlike in his excitement, with his words practically spitting out of his mouth. They were both teenagers then—Garnett was 19, already in the NBA, and Kobe was 17, about to make the leap from high school to the draft.
Kobe’s curiosity was insatiable, peppering Garnett with questions about the NBA. He wanted to know if the game was as aggressive as it appeared, how rough it was being a rookie, and what it took to survive in the league.
“Is it really as aggressive as it looks out there?” Kobe asked.
“Hell, yes, it’s aggressive,” Garnett responded.
“Is it rough being a rook?”
“Rough as f–k.”
“How do you mean?”
“It’s about paying dues. About standing up to vets who see you as a threat. About getting your ass kicked. About standing your ground.”
“You got a crew? You got your people?”
“I got my people, but I’m a to-myself kinda dude. I can feel you’re more a people person,” Garnett observed.
This initial exchange was the foundation of a relationship built on mutual respect and shared experiences. Both Garnett and Bryant had chosen unconventional paths, entering the NBA straight out of high school, a rarity at the time. They understood the challenges and pressures unique to their journey.
