In a heartfelt revelation on ‘The LADE Show,’ Metta World Peace, formerly known as Ron Artest, revisited the emotional turmoil he experienced upon hearing about the tragic death of Kobe Bryant, his former teammate and one of basketball’s greatest icons. The news of Bryant’s passing in January 2020 sent shockwaves through the sports world, leaving fans and fellow athletes in disbelief.
Metta, who shared a special bond with Kobe during their years together on the Los Angeles Lakers, recounted the surreal moment he heard the devastating news. Living in the valley, where the sounds of aircraft are common, he distinctly remembered hearing a helicopter on that foggy morning. “I do remember hearing a chopper that day, which is, like, still very subtle to me. And I remember that day because you couldn’t see nothing,” Metta said, implying he might have heard the very helicopter that crashed, claiming the lives of Kobe and eight others.
The confirmation of Kobe’s death came through a call from a casual acquaintance who had once joined him at a Lakers game. Initially struck by disbelief, Metta reached out to fellow NBA players Lou Williams and Kevin Garnett, who sadly confirmed the news. Overwhelmed by grief, Metta described the immediate aftermath as a period of mourning, characterized by a deep denial of the reality that had unfolded. “I’m like, no way. I know he about to walk through my backyard right now…And I was waiting for it. Just waiting for it. Like, come on,” he expressed, highlighting the profound sense of loss he felt.
Metta World Peace and Kobe Bryant were not the closest of friends, but their relationship was built on a foundation of mutual respect and shared commitment to basketball excellence. Playing for the Lakers from 2009-2013 and again from 2015-2017, Metta witnessed first-hand Kobe’s leadership and relentless work ethic. Their camaraderie was cemented through battles on the court, including their journey to the 2010 NBA Championship, which further solidified their bond.
Kobe often praised Metta for his defensive prowess and significant impact on the team dynamics. Reciprocally, Metta admired Kobe not just as a teammate but as a benchmark of athletic greatness, continually striving to impress him even though he was only a year younger. This mutual admiration was evident both on and off the court, as they pushed each other towards greatness.
The passing of Kobe Bryant marked a significant moment not just in the world of sports but also in the lives of those who knew him personally like Metta World Peace. Reflecting on their time together, Metta emphasized the impact Kobe had on his career and personal growth, underscoring the difficulty of coping with such a tremendous loss.
Metta’s candid discussion about seeking therapy and coping with loss after retirement parallels his struggle with Kobe’s death, underscoring the importance of mental health support in dealing with life-altering changes. His openness provides a vital perspective on the challenges athletes face when transitioning out of the spotlight, and more poignantly, when dealing with the loss of a fellow athlete and friend.
As the basketball community continues to honor Kobe Bryant’s legacy, stories like Metta World Peace’s offer a deeply personal glimpse into the relationships Kobe nurtured throughout his career and the lasting impact he had on his peers.
