Former Los Angeles Lakers veteran Pau Gasol honored the late Kobe Bryant during a Hall of Fame induction speech. Legends like San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich, Dwyane Wade, Dirk Nowitzki, and Becky Hammon were among the inductees.

Gasol recalled the early memories and conversations he had with Bryant when he came to the NBA. Gasol and Bryant made a lethal combination on the court and they were instrumental in the success of the team over the years.

The duo played seven seasons for Purple and Gold together out of which they won two NBA titles and ended as runners-up on one occasion. The pair had great chemistry with each other on the court, which helped them dominate the opposition.

Black Mamba, as Kobe was known during his heydays, was able to get the best out of Pau Gasol and both of them loved sharing the court with each other.

“He made sure that right away, firsthand, I got the message,” Gasol said of Bryant during his induction speech. “He said, ‘Welcome to the team. I’m happy you’re here. Now let’s go win a championship together.’ I said, ‘Alright I’m in, man. I’m in. Have a good night.’ That was it. No crap. Straight to the chase.

“I wouldn’t be here without you, brother. I wish more than anything that you and Gigi were here today with us. I miss you and love you.”

Meanwhile, it was reported that Kobe Bryant wanted to part ways with LA Lakers after the 2007 season due to the team’s inability to create a champion team. However, LA Lakers and their general manager were able to rope in Pau Gasol, which changed Bryant’s mind. What followed is history as Bryant and Gasol played a key role in the success of the Lakers.

Both players grew in stature and confidence while playing with each other and took giant strides in their respective careers.