If you are in the public eye, just about every part of your life can be scrutinized by the media. Everything you do will be judged. We see this all the time with politicians, musicians, and athletes. The fact that millions watch you means that you have an extra responsibility to conduct yourself in a presentable way.
Kobe Bryant, one of the best basketball players of all time, knows this full well. Back in 2003, he was accused of sexual assault in a huge scandal that drew the attention of just about everyone in the country, basketball fan or not. Kobe knows the pressure and the invasion of privacy by the media.
The fact that millions watch you means that you have an extra responsibility to conduct yourself in a presentable way. Young kids look up to those in the spotlight as role models.
So what did Kobe Bryant do this time to get some negative attention? Smush Parker, an ex-teammate of his from 2005-2007, recently told ESPN of comments that Kobe had made to him during their days together. Here is the report from Parker:
“I tried to talk to him outside of basketball . . . And he looked at me in practice and was dead serious and said, ‘You can’t talk to me. You need more accolades under your belt before you come talk to me.'”
Kobe Bryant completely disrespected and shut down his teammate who wanted to have a simple conversation. Kobe thought he was too good to waste his time speaking with someone who hadn’t achieved the same greatness on the court that he had.
So what kind of message do the kids at home take with them after hearing this? They learn that once you’re the best, you don’t have to respect anyone. They learn that it is cool to be arrogant. They learn to be rude. Kobe Bryant’s true self was exposed by Smush Parker, and I don’t think he will be too happy about it.
Read more here.
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