San Antonio Spurs point guard De’Aaron Fox, fresh off a four-year max extension, says a single discussion with the late Kobe Bryant continues to guide him both on and off the floor.
Fox revisited the exchange during an appearance on the “All the Smoke” podcast with hosts Matt Barnes and Stephen Jackson. In a clip published to the show’s X (formerly Twitter) account on Aug. 4, 2025, the former All-Star called the late-night talk “life-changing.”
The conversation
According to Fox, Bryant treated the call as a teaching session, offering detailed advice about preparation, competitiveness and what it takes to sustain success in the NBA. The guard, widely regarded as one of the league’s quickest players, said the guidance helped refine his approach to practice, recovery and leadership.
Ongoing influence
Fox noted that Bryant’s willingness to host skills camps for younger players and his dedication to coaching his daughter’s team underscored the Lakers legend’s passion for the sport. Nearly a decade after Bryant’s final NBA game, Fox said the “Mamba Mentality” still resonates across the league and even cited Stephen Curry as an example of a star who embraces that mindset, making him harder to defend.
Luka Doncic shares similar experience
The episode also touched on how today’s players continue to draw inspiration from Bryant. Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic recently admitted he was so nervous upon meeting Bryant for the first time that he “could barely speak,” underscoring the late Hall of Famer’s enduring impact.
Imagem: lakersnation.com
Fox said he feels fortunate to have spent time with Bryant and intends to carry the lessons into his new role in San Antonio alongside rookie phenom Victor Wembanyama.
Source: LakersNation
