“Watch the shots that you are taking motherf***er” – LeBron James BLASTED Kobe Bryant mid-game as motivation during duo epic run as teammate

Leaked audio reveals heated exchange between LeBron and Kobe at 2008 Olympics.

“Watch the shots that you are taking motherf***er” – LeBron James BLASTED Kobe Bryant mid-game as motivation during duo epic run as teammate

Kobe Bryant and LeBron James playing together on Team USA at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing. (image via Twitter / X)

A recently surfaced audio clip has highlighted the dynamics between two NBA legends, LeBron James and Kobe Bryant, during the 2008 Olympics. This Team USA, often referred to as “The Redeem Team,” was a golden roster that included the best basketball players in the world. The bond between LeBron James and Kobe Bryant has always been noticeable, but this leaked audio reveals the raw and intense nature of their interaction during the game.

During the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, viewers saw the growth of a strong friendship between James and Bryant. Bryant was somewhat of a mentor to James during the games and was not spared from LeBron’s harsh criticisms on the court. The leaked audio captures James aggressively urging Bryant to improve his shot selection, stating, “Watch the shots that you’re taking, motherf**ker. Drive that b**ch!”

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Bryant, known for his unparalleled work ethic and dedication, probably respected this direct approach. Very few teammates dared to challenge Bryant openly, primarily given his renowned reputation for outworking everybody. However, James, who matched Bryant’s prowess on the court, held nothing back, reminding him of his responsibility to deliver when it mattered the most.

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The formation and success of “The Redeem Team”

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2008 TEAM USA aka The Redeem Team (image via Twitter / X)

Following the disheartening bronze medal at the 2004 Olympics, the 2008 Team USA was carefully put together, representing redemption. With inputs from basketball legends like Michael Jordan, Larry Bird, and Jerry West, the team had a strong core formed by Kobe Bryant and LeBron James. They were joined by veterans such as Carmelo Anthony, Dwyane Wade, Jason Kidd, and others.

Kobe quickly established himself as the team’s driving force, earning the respect and affection of his peers in the locker room. Players like James and Carmelo’s direct and harsh motivational strategies were crucial in leading the squad to success. The team’s combination of uncensored coaching and raw skill led to a memorable Olympic journey that restored their former glory and compared them to the legendary 1992 Dream Team.

As the ’08 Team USA clinched the much-deserved gold, it wasn’t just a victory for the country, but also a proof of the strong camaraderie that existed between the team members, something that the leaked audio clip has vividly brought to light today.

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