Kobe Bryant Benched: Why Lakers Star Must Rise Above the Hollywood Drama

Kobe Bryant doesn’t have time for Hollywood drama. The Los Angeles Lakers don’t either.

When head coach Mike Brown made the move to substitute in Metta World Peace for Bryant at the 5:45 mark, it was a bit surprising given that the game was still in reach. The Lakers went on to lose the game against the Memphis Grizzlies, 102-96.

It came as no surprise when Bryant was asked if he was bothered by being benched, and he said, “Of course I was.”

When asked to comment further on the benching, Bryant took the high road and didn’t fall into the word-play trap that so often catches high-profile athletes. “It’s his decision to make, he makes the decision. He’s the coach," Bryan said.

Naturally, the superstar seemed a bit perturbed at the personnel change that occurred at such a crucial point in the game—the Lakers trailed by 14-points—but he recognized his position with the team and held his composure in the interview room.

The Lakers are currently in a two-game lead inside the Pacific Division, so there is no real reason to panic for the Lakers over a loss that came at the hands of the Grizzlies.

What Bryant was able to do was show true composure and leadership for his team. He also showed respect for his coach, further solidifying that Bryant has come into his own as a leader and knows his place with the team, superstar ego aside.

Given the headaches that have come with the transition for the Lakers from the Phil Jackson era, this was needed for this team. The Lakers don’t need the Hollywood drama, they need to win ball games. Bryant showed that in the end, that is his focus.