Kobe Bryant: How Lakers Icon Inspired Warriors Star Stephen Curry

• Kobe Bryant influenced and inspired millions of people around the globe
• The NBA icon inspired a generation of players who have tried to be like him on the court
• Stephen Curry was one of the players inspired by Bryant, who died three years ago

Kobe Bryant tragically died in a helicopter crash along with his daughter, Gianna and seven others, three years ago to the day.

Bryant inspired an entire generation of NBA stars like Kyrie Irving, Jayson Tatum, DeMar DeRozan and Stephen Curry. His 'Mamba Mentality' mindset influenced not only sportsmen or women, but people from all walks of life.

His influence runs deep in the NBA. Many current players mirrored their games after Bryant, from the midrange and footwork to his dunks.

Warriors' superstar, Curry was among those crossed paths with the Lakers icon in the basketball association.

Allen Iverson recounts how Michael Jordan inspired him

NBA

How Bryant inspired Curry

Curry once recalled how Bryant showed respect to him during his rookie season in the NBA. The Warriors were hosting the Lakers at Oracle Arena.

Bryant was resting on the bench during the fourth quarter, while Curry was working to reduce his team's deficit in the game. As the Warriors star was working his magic, the Lakers icon was closely following proceedings, per NBC Sports.

"He went on to talk about that silent killer instinct. That it doesn't have to be ‘rah-rah’ talking trash in your face, but it’s something you see in your eyes and the way that you move that came out... He respected that and recognised that. And that to me, was the ultimate gas in the tank."

Why Steph Curry's sneakers have Bible verse written on them

NBA

The 34-year-old continues to live by those words. The sharpshooter is now a four-time champion and continues to embody what the late guard said about having a killer instinct.

Here are some reactions from fans on Bryant's third anniversary.

"Feels like yesterday."

"RIP, still have never cried for anyone outside my personal circle like I did when I heard the news. I remember exactly where I was and what I was doing."

"I'll never forget that day!"

"Crazy that he didn’t get to see Lakers win the chip that year."

"Toughest celeb death ever man."

Curry compared to Michael Jordan

Warriors coach, Steve Kerr recently compared Curry to Michael Jordan after the reigning NBA Finals MVP received chants on the road, per SI.

Having played with Jordan in the 1990s and coaching Curry for nine seasons now, Kerr would know how fans treated two generational players.

Steve Kerr on why Steph Curry is the modern Michael Jordan

NBA

The Warriors have dominated the NBA for several seasons now and are still tipped to win the association's title again this season.

Sundance: Stephen, Ayesha Curry dazzle

Sports Brief also reported on Stephen Curry and his wife, Ayesha looking fashionable on the red carpet.

The couple attended the official screening of his documentary, Stephen Curry: Underrated at the Sundance Film Festival.

Ayesha opted for a brown twill jumpsuit, a leather bomber jacket and crocodile leather boots, while Stephen wore a white long-sleeve zip-up sweater with a dark blue gilet.