New York Liberty star Sabrina Ionescu opened up about her pride in wearing a Kobe Bryant jersey, and what it meant for her.
In a feature interview with Complex Sports, Sabrina Ionescu recalled the one time she wore the “best jersey there is.”
“I don’t remember which game this is, wearing the Lakers’ #8 jersey though, of course, legendary,” said Ionescu about one of her better outfits of the season. “Just walking into the game in the best jersey there is.”
View this post on Instagram
Sabrina Ionescu recently visited Manila as part of her Asian tour, and her presence created a buzz in the basketball-loving Philippines. During her three-day stay, she engaged with fans, athletes, and coaches, sharing her insights on basketball and life.
She participated in a panel discussion alongside local basketball figures, emphasizing the importance of passion, growth, and staying true to oneself. Ionescu also led a skills camp at the Nike Courtyard, inspiring young female players with her dynamic playing style and valuable lessons.
Sabrina Ionescu Considers Kobe Bryant a “Friend and Mentor”
Sabrina Ionescu has often cited Kobe Bryant as one of her greatest influences, both on and off the court. She admired his legendary “Mamba Mentality” and his relentless drive for excellence, which she has incorporated into her own approach to basketball.
Ionescu shared a close bond with Bryant, who became her mentor and supported her during her college career at Oregon. She once said, “Kobe taught me that dedication sees dreams come true” and that he inspired her to pursue basketball with a fierce, obsessive focus.
“Kobe taught me that dedication sees dreams come true,” Ionescu said of Bryant, who she described as a friend and a mentor. “Give it everything you’ve got. This time is teaching us that we are not always in control. Don’t forget to live in the moment, but try to be the best you can. It is so important to control what you can, and just do your best. The rest will take care of itself.
“Kobe taught me that dedication sees dreams come true.”
Sabrina Ionescu shared what she learned from Kobe in her Oregon commencement speech. (via @uoregon) pic.twitter.com/KAaRTSHMZf
— ESPN (@espn) June 21, 2020
“Kobe taught me that it’s the one thing you can control, that you’re responsible for how people remember you, or don’t.”
After Bryant’s tragic passing in 2020, Ionescu honored his legacy by delivering a heartfelt speech at his memorial service. She reflected on their friendship and his impact on her life, saying, “He was more than a mentor—he was a friend, a confidant, and someone who believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself.”
Sabrina Ionescu continues to carry Bryant’s lessons with her, often wearing his jersey as a tribute and embodying his mindset in her game.
For more basketball content, click on Hardwood Heroics. Sabel Reyes can be reached through sabelreyes22@gmail.com. Other websites under the Sports Heroics umbrella are Gridiron Heroics and Wisconsin Heroics.
Sabel has been working as a field reporter for People’s Television Network (PTV), mainly about the Philippine Basketball Association since 2016 and has been elevated to Executive Producer for sports in 2022. Aside from being on top of the Philippine sports scene, she is also a running enthusiast. You can also follow her on X at @SabelReyes2 and Instagram at @msabelreyes.
