Kobe Bryant was not just a basketball player, he was a legend. Known as the ‘Black Mamba’, he was one of the greatest players to ever grace the court. But beyond his incredible skills and achievements, Bryant was also a champion for equality in the sport he loved. He saw talent and passion as the only requirements for being a successful basketball player, regardless of gender. And this belief was not only evident in his playing career, but also in his influence on other players and coaches, including Phil Handy.
Handy, a former player development coach for the Los Angeles Lakers, recently made the transition to coaching in the WNBA. Despite his success in the NBA, Handy credits Bryant’s influence for inspiring him to take on a new challenge in women’s basketball, where he is now an assistant coach for the Toronto Raptors’ sister team, the Toronto Raptors 905.
For Handy, Bryant’s belief in equality was not just a belief, it was a way of life. He saw no difference between male and female athletes, as long as they had the skills and determination to succeed. This mindset was instilled in him by Bryant, who constantly reminded him to focus on the game and not the gender of the players. This philosophy is what made Bryant stand out as a leader and a role model, not just in basketball, but in life.
Bryant’s impact on Handy’s coaching career is evident in Handy’s approach to working with female athletes. He brings the same intensity and dedication to the game that Bryant did, and treats his players with the same level of respect and equality. This is not surprising, as Handy spent seven seasons working alongside Bryant, witnessing firsthand how he treated everyone with the same level of professionalism and respect, regardless of their gender.
This approach has not only helped Handy in his transition to coaching women, but it has also had a positive impact on the players he coaches. Handy’s players have spoken highly of his coaching style, praising his ability to push them to their full potential and his unwavering belief in their abilities. And this is all thanks to the influence of Bryant, who taught Handy to see beyond gender and focus on the individual’s talents and skills.
Bryant’s impact on women’s basketball goes beyond his influence on one coach. He was a vocal advocate for women’s sports and often spoke about the importance of giving female athletes the same recognition and opportunities as their male counterparts. In fact, Bryant became the first NBA player to have a shoe designed for women in 2018, the ‘KOBE 1 Protro Women’s’ shoe. This was just one of the many ways he championed for equality in the sport.
But Bryant’s influence on women’s basketball is not just limited to his words and actions. It is also evident in the way he raised his daughter, Gianna, who shared his passion for the game. Bryant was a dedicated father and coach to Gianna, and he often spoke about how she had the potential to play in the WNBA one day. His support for her and her dream of becoming a professional basketball player further showcased his belief in gender equality in sports.
Tragically, Bryant and Gianna’s lives were cut short in a helicopter crash in January 2020. But their legacy and impact on women’s basketball continue to live on. The WNBA dedicated its 2020 season to the memory of Kobe and Gianna, and many players and coaches continue to honor their legacy on and off the court.
Phil Handy’s decision to transition to women’s basketball is a perfect example of how Kobe’s influence continues to inspire others. Despite winning three NBA titles with the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Toronto Raptors, Handy felt the need to challenge himself and step out of his comfort zone by coaching in the WNBA. This is a testament to Bryant’s belief in constantly striving for greatness and pushing oneself to be the best version of themselves.
In conclusion, Kobe Bryant’s impact on women’s basketball cannot be overstated. He was a true champion for equality and a role model for all athletes, regardless of gender. His influence on coaches like Phil Handy has helped pave the way for more diversity and inclusivity in the sport. And although he may no longer be with us, his legacy and teachings will continue to inspire future generations of hoopers, both men and women. As we continue to remember and honor Kobe Bryant, let us also strive to carry on his message of equality in all aspects of life,
