Former NBA guard Vernon Maxwell recently shared a vivid recollection of facing Kobe Bryant as a high school senior, highlighting the late Lakers legend’s precocious talent and unshakable confidence.

Speaking on Vegas PBS, Maxwell detailed an encounter during practices organized by John Lucas in Philadelphia, where Bryant left a lasting impression.

“Kobe Bryant was the real deal even before he got to the league,” Maxwell said, via HoopsHype. “I remember when John Lucas invited him to our practices in Philly. He was just a high school senior, but man, he was killing us.”

Maxwell, a two-time NBA champion known for his defensive prowess, admitted that he struggled to guard the young Bryant. “I couldn’t stop him, and I’m a top-tier defender,” he added. “This kid was dropping buckets on everybody, smooth as hell. I told him, ‘You don’t need college. You’re ready now.’”

The future Lakers icon reportedly played with a confidence and determination that set him apart even at such a young age. “He had that drive, that hunger. You could see it in his eyes. He wasn’t just playing; he was out there proving a point,” Maxwell explained.

Bryant’s demeanor during those scrimmages further underscored his readiness for the NBA stage. “I remember thinking, ‘This dude’s gonna be something special.’ And he was. Even back then, he was shaking his head, smiling, like, ‘Yeah, this is too easy.’ That’s how confident he was,” Maxwell said.

Bryant bypassed college and entered the 1996 NBA Draft straight out of Lower Merion High School, a move that only a few players dared to make at the time. He was selected 13th overall by the Charlotte Hornets and was subsequently traded to the Los Angeles Lakers, where he built a Hall of Fame career.

Known for his relentless work ethic and competitive spirit, Bryant went on to win five NBA championships, earn 18 All-Star selections, and cement his legacy as one of the greatest players in basketball history.