We all deal with tragedy and adversity in our own way. Kobe Bryant always reminded us to attack each day with the “Mamba Mentality.” Today, this phrase hits home. What does it mean? In 2016, Kobe was asked the questioned and said, “To sum up what Mamba Mentality is, it means to be able to constantly try to be the best version of yourself. That is what the Mentality is.” By now, everyone has heard the tragic death of Kobe, his daughter, Gigi, and others aboard his private helicopter. I can’t begin to imagine what their families are going through at this time. My prayers and condolences to all of the families involved in this tragedy.
We all focus on our problems, issues and setbacks as if our world is coming to an end. In reality, what we are dealing with, in a lot of instances, is small outside of our own bubble. I’ll use my team’s season as an example. To say the season has been trying is an understatement. Within the first two weeks of practice, we lost two starters to season-ending injuries (torn meniscus and broken wrist). Last week, we lost our leading scorer and rebounder. Clearly, this has thrown a wrench in our plans in preparation of the season. Our team has shown flashes of being a good team, but have been unable to sustain it for full games. I never question their effort, because they give me everything. Needless to say, it’s easy to question yourself as a coach. Am I implementing what’s best for the group? Am I using the right methods to reach them? Am I the right person to reach them? A lot of questions swirl in my head, but I choose to wake up every day and put my best foot forward to be the best coach I can be for my guys. I approach each practice and game with supreme optimism and confidence, because I believe in the work we put in. I want my guys to have that same belief…MAMBA MENTALITY. It goes far beyond the game of basketball. It’s a way of life. No matter what you’re doing, do it to the best of your ability. Block out the naysayers and keep putting the in the work. What I’ve learned this season is that the game results don’t always equal the end of the game. It’s the MENTALITY, not the result. Win or lose, we have to get back to work the next day. If we want to be great, we have to constantly be the best version of ourselves. Not just yesterday, but today and every day going forward. As tough as the results may be right now, I put faith in believing this mentality is laying the foundation for my players on and off the court.
One of the toughest parts about this tragedy is the inclusion of children. Gianna was only 13 years old, but she was already following in her dad’s footsteps. She loved the game and wanted to soak up all she could from her dad. I have an 11 year old daughter myself. She doesn’t play basketball, but she has a passion for the arts and I enjoy watching her in action. I’ve driven her to many practices and performances and I thank the good Lord we were able to make it there and back safely. A lot of times we take these small things for granted. I can only imagine what it was like on the plane today. As parents, all we want is to protect our kids. One can only hope and pray they didn’t feel any pain and those children felt a bit of comfort in their parents’ arms. Tonight, I surely want to squeeze my baby girl a little tighter and longer. As a father, I have to try to be the best version I can be for my daughter. This has to be a daily reminder. She's watching my every move and will certainly take notice of my mentality. Mamba Mentality.
Finally, it shouldn’t take tragedy to remind us to live every day to its fullest potential. Regardless, please understand life is short. NOTHING is promised. We all should cherish, embrace, forgive, love and empower one another. If we all embrace the Mamba Mentality, then we will do this en route to becoming the best version of ourselves. I challenge each of you to take this approach and bury any ill will, anger, hurt or grudges you're carrying right now. You can't be at your best harboring these feelings. Kobe, thank you for sharing your gift, passion and mentality with the world. We will honor your life and legacy by continuing to live by your mentality daily. One last time…MAMBA OUT
RIH
Coach D
This is so special coming from my Son. I love you man and keep doing what you're doing.