Kobe Bryant is no longer a young man. He may be only 33 years old, but Kobe has been in the NBA for what feels like forever. He can’t just roll out of bed, show up at the arena, take a few jump shots and be ready to go. Since he is also competing in the Olympics this year, Bryant has had to go the extra mile to make sure his body can handle the additional work load without compromising his responsibilities to the Lakers. That has included dropping some weight.
In an interview with the London Guardian, Kobe discussed the experimental treatment he has undergone on his knees. In addition, he revealed that he has lost 16 pounds to try to cut back on some of the stress his legs are put through.
“With summer basketball leading directly into the season – and I’m expecting to play until next June – I have to take some load off my knees,” Bryant explained. “I’ve got to shave some of this weight.”
Somewhere, world’s biggest Olympic hater Mark Cuban is screaming, “See! This is what I’m talking about!.” However, the Lakers likely have no problem with Kobe getting into better shape to prepare for both the Olympics and his next season in L.A. As he mentioned before, the Olympics are more than just an injury threat to star players. They give players a two-tier tournament to participate in and — as evidenced by Kobe’s preparation — another reason to remain in top physical condition.
Something tells me Andrew Bynum would have a different opinion.
