Sanford Basketball players reflect on Kobe’s impact
In the wake of the death of Kobe Bryant, Sanford basketball players reflect on the life lessons he shared with them.
Sanford JV basketball player Jaylen Douglas said, “Kobe taught me to be competitive and that being competitive will always get you a reward”.
Douglas is currently in his sophomore year and is a JV starter. I was told he’s a major asset to his team and helps contribute to every game. And that his competitiveness results in helping his team maintain their positive record.
Another Sanford player Clay Cauley said, “And I respected him more so for how hard that he worked, I think that was the biggest thing that inspired me from Kobe”.
Cauley has been seen pushing himself on and off the court. Many say when on the court Cauley puts in 100% effort and is always trying his best. And by him showing me he was on honor roll portrays the hard work and dedication he puts into his school work as well.
Douglas said that “Kobe had his biggest impact on me after he died because I realize how much you have to cherish the people who are close to you”.
It’s clear to see how much of a brotherhood the Sanford basketball team has. Due to the intense schedule they have, they may even sleep in the same room with each other during away games. And most of the players say that they stand up for one another no matter what.
Cauley said, ‟He had a strong desire for what he wanted and that’s why he worked so hard, and I think I do too”.
As mentioned before Cauley was on the honor roll, so good grades were a strong desire for him. He’s also told me that he would sometimes stay for extra help to understand the topic better.
When asked about an aspect of Kobe that he sees in himself, Douglas responds saying ‟I like to joke around like Kobe”.
Many of Douglas´s friends told me that he has a very comical personality and that he helps put smiles on their faces. With Douglas now knowing that he and Kobe have the same type of personality is something he can always reflect on.
