Gordon Hayward Gets Real About Workouts With Kobe, Celtics Years & Final Years In The NBA | EP 35
Jan 1, 2024
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Gordon Hayward, All-Star Forward of the Charlotte Hornets, discusses playing and training with Kobe Bryant, recovering from a catastrophic injury, difficulties in Boston, and more
Choosing the Celtics offered Gordon Hayward the best chance to win a championship.
Gordon Hayward's workouts with Kobe Bryant played a crucial role in his growth and development as a player.
The mental and emotional challenges of Hayward's injury required time and perseverance to overcome.
Deep dives
Challenging Decision to Sign with Boston Celtics
Gordon Hayward faced a difficult decision when choosing between Miami Heat, Boston Celtics, and staying with the Utah Jazz. He ultimately chose the Celtics because he felt it offered the best chance to win a championship.
Impact of Kobe Bryant's Mentality
Working out with Kobe Bryant helped Gordon Hayward develop a winning mentality and confidence. Bryant's guidance and mentorship played a crucial role in Hayward's growth and development as a player.
Injury and Mental Struggles
Hayward's injury was mentally and emotionally challenging as he had to cope with the physical limitations and doubt about his abilities. It took time and perseverance to regain confidence and feel like his former self on the court.
Challenges of Returning from Injury
It took time for Hayward to regain his physical abilities and feel completely back to his pre-injury level. The mental aspect of returning to the game and the pressure to perform added to the challenges of the recovery process.
Gordon Hayward reflects on the challenges and dynamics of the Boston Celtics team
Gordon Hayward discusses the dynamics and challenges of the Boston Celtics team during his time there. He highlights the individual goals and pressures that affected the team's chemistry and their ability to come together. Hayward also mentions the issue of having too many players in the same position, all needing the ball. Despite these challenges, the Celtics still managed to make it to the second round of the playoffs. He also touches on the importance of sacrifice and team unity for success.
Gordon Hayward's observations on the development and talent of Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum
Gordon Hayward describes the early talent and potential he saw in his Boston Celtics teammates, Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum. He praises Tatum's scoring ability and fearlessness in clutch moments since day one. Hayward also highlights Brown's physicality and basketball skills, mentioning that their development was further accelerated when injuries gave them more playing time and responsibilities. He shares that their progress exceeded expectations and acknowledges their exceptional talent and growth.
Gordon Hayward, the All-Star Forward of the Charlotte Hornets, joins Podcast P to discuss various topics, including his experiences playing against and training with Kobe Bryant, how he dealt with a seemingly catastrophic injury, his difficulty in Boston, and more.
