My Monthly Sports Minute: Am I Still Trying To “Be Like Mike?” #4

My Monthly Sports Minute: Am I Still Trying to “Be Like Mike?” #4

Growing up close to Los Angeles didn’t make me want to “be like Mike.” I wanted to “be like Kobe.” At the age of 7, I was truly inspired to “be like Kobe.” My father also helped by putting a basketball in my hands.

I remember being so anxious to watch Kobe play. I tried to never miss his NBA games. I would watch each one. I watched every minute, from start to finish.

I remember watching him catch the ball with 4.0 seconds left on the clock. He’d shake the defender. Then, he’d shoot a deep fade away three-pointer over the defender for another W. I remember the feeling of excitement I would get, while watching the ball go “swoosh” as the buzzer rang.

Just imagine a little Black girl — me — with glasses playing basketball in the schoolyard with the boys. I wanted a challenge. I already thought I was a better hooper than all of the other girls. After school, I would come home to my bedroom — with yellow painted walls and purple carpet. I convinced my parents to let me decorate my room in Lakers colors. I was the biggest Kobe and Lakers fan.

After suffering devastating injures while playing ball, I tried to stop wanting to “be like Kobe.” But, my “hoop dreams” never left. I’m currently playing overseas — living out what people call a “hoop dream” — and I’m truly blessed.

But am I still trying to “be like Kobe?”

Yes and no. Yes, I’m a pro ball player like he once was. I’m trying to be the best I can be on the court. But, also, no because my passions already extend beyond playing basketball. Basketball is now my tool to excel and pursue God’s purpose for my life. “Hoop dreams” don’t last forever.

RIP Kobe (My all-time favorite player, the greatest) #RIPkobeandgigi

— Imani Dixon