Hezly Rivera’s dad Henry reveals how he inspired gymnast to have Kobe Bryant’s “Mamba Mentality”

Hezly Rivera talks about how his family helped and supported her in her journey as a gymnast to being a participant at the Olympics.

Hezly Rivera’s dad Henry reveals how he inspired gymnast to have Kobe Bryant’s “Mamba Mentality”

Hezly Rivera and Kobe Bryant [Image Credit: Athlon Sports/LA Times]

Olympics Team USA participant Hezly Rivera’s dad Henry reveals how he gifted his daughter icon Kobe Bryant’s “The Mamba Mentality: How I Play” book and how much the young gymnast was inspired by it. Being a Lakers fan himself, he saw Hezly having the same “Mamba Mentality” just like the basketball legend.

From a young age, she was taught to work hard for anything she wanted to achieve and never to waste time by dwelling on a decision. Henry taught Hezly how to act on things, as the gymnast called her “my hero, my rock.”

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She spoke about how much her family has supported her to advance in her career. They even moved to Texas to get the 16-year-old guidance from Olympic gold medalist Nastia Liukin’s dad Valeri Liukin, who has worked as a trainer for several athletes, including Olympic gymnast Gabby Douglas.

Her ticket was always outworking everyone. Her mentality was almost that ‘mamba mentality’. If you want something – you go for it.
Henry Rivera as per Jeanette Settembre of NY Post.

Henry also talked about how such a mentality was crucial for advancing in life as “It’s never going to be handed, especially being a Latina.” Her dad recalled the moment when they first knew about Hezly Rivera’s Olympic selection, “It’s the biggest joy in the world,” he said.

He pointed out how winning any medals at her first Olympic debut was not that important compared to what she accomplished at the young age of 16. Even before taking the floor, her mother Heidy Rivera tell her, “be brave, be confident, she got this.”

Hezly Rivera talks about importance of balance in supporting and competing against teammates

Despite being disqualified for the individual final race at the Paris Olympics 2024, Hezly Rivera talked about the importance of supporting the team in an exclusive interview with US Magazine. She spoke about how much supporting and cheering for teammates means, even if they are competing against one another in the event. 

Hezly Rivera [Image Credit: MSN]
Hezly Rivera [Image Credit: MSN]

It is something she feels is important not to forget during competitive events. Having teammates like Olympian Simone Biles, Suni Lee, Jordan Chiles, and Jade Carey by her side during her first Olympic debut meant a lot to her.

It’s so important to support your friends and the team. Even though you are competing against each other, it’s great to have a bond. To have help and to help other gymnasts, I think that’s what’s great about this sport.
Hezly Rivera as per Isabella Jambrina of US Magazine.

Hezly further added how she tries to stay in a positive mindset and healthy before any events to help her calm her nerves. Although her Olympic journey may have ended early this year, she still has a long journey ahead as a gymnast.

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