Former NBA champion Stephen Jackson recently shared a striking story that adds yet another layer to the legend of Kobe Bryant—one that paints a vivid picture of the late Lakers icon’s relentless drive, even as a teenager.
Speaking on the Fast Break podcast, Jackson revealed that Bryant had a “kill list” of players he wanted to dominate, starting as early as 13 years old.
“He had a kill list at 13. I wasn’t thinking like that at 13, 14, 15 years old,” Jackson said. “He was just so different.”
Jackson, who played against Bryant in the McDonald’s All-American Game, recalled how Kobe’s discipline and focus stood out even among the nation’s top high school talent. While most players were indulging in fast food after practice, Bryant was already thinking like a pro.
“We all at the McDonald’s game, all there for the same reasons. We going to McDonald’s after practice. [Kobe said:] ‘I see y’all. I’m not eating that s**t,’” Jackson recounted.
That moment stuck with Jackson—not just because of the dietary choice, but because it symbolized Kobe’s singular mindset. While others were enjoying the moment, Bryant was already preparing for greatness.
The “kill list” wasn’t just a metaphor. According to Jackson, Bryant had specific names—top-ranked players in his class like Tim Thomas—whom he was determined to outwork and outperform. It was a mentality that would later become known as the Mamba Mentality, but its roots were planted long before Kobe ever stepped onto an NBA court.
“I admired Kobe because he was the same age as me, and the dedication he put in as a teenager—I didn’t think it was real,” Jackson said.
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Bryant’s obsessive work ethic became the stuff of legend throughout his 20-year NBA career. From 4 a.m. workouts to playing through injuries, his commitment to excellence was unwavering. Jackson’s story adds a new dimension to that legacy: Kobe wasn’t just built different—he started different.
