Justin Timberlake Recalls Final Conversation With Kobe Bryant

Ever since Kobe Bryant, the NBA legend, passed away earlier this week, there has been an outpouring of support and commemoration on behalf of the former Los Angeles Laker. The most recent to come out and express his condolences is Justin Timberlake.

The 38-year-old performing artist, in an Instagram post on Monday, claimed he and Kobe once bonded over their respective ambition and willingness to do whatever it took to succeed.

The star wrote on Monday that he was in “awe” of Kobe’s abilities, which stretched far beyond what he could do physically. Justin claims he learned something from Kobe, mostly his “drive and process,” which he has implemented in his own life.

Justin claims Kobe’s relationship with him was based on admiration and mutual respect, in addition to playful “ribbing.” According to Timberlake, Kobe once joked about how he has aged so gracefully over the years, similar to fine wine.

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Explaining some of Kobe’s more personable and relatable traits, Justin stated that the basketball player not only had a drive to win, but also a feeling of compassion. The last time they spoke to each other was about having kids.

As fans of the singer know, Justin has a 4-year-old son named Silas with Jessica Biel, whereas Bryant had four daughters with Vanessa Bryant. Unfortunately, Gianna Bryant, his 13-year-old girl, was one of the people killed in the helicopter crash.

Justin, on his IG account, explained that one of the last things they ever talked about was their legacy, which meant raising their children the best they could.

While many people expressed condolences and support for the family and friends of the basketball legend, others took the opportunity to crack poorly-timed jokes. Ari Shaffir, a comedian known for his appearances on The Joe Rogan Experience podcast, took to his Twitter to reference Kobe’s controversial rape case in 2003.

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The case was suddenly dropped after the 19-year-old girl involved chose not to go to trial. Evan Rachel Wood also addressed this controversial case as well.

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