Moreover, during Kobe's long career, he never minded you playing him hard, even using some excessively intense actions to defend him.
After all, how is a defender supposed to guard a superstar who can't be touched during a game?
And Bell?
After that incident, Bell quickly transformed his hatred for Kobe into respect upon witnessing Kobe's incredible demeanor on the basketball court.
"I wouldn't know what Kobe felt, but at the time, I really hated him," Bell said afterward. "However, during later interactions, my hatred turned into respect, and this was the turning point in our relationship, after which we began to get acquainted."
In the low post, at the moment when Kobe paved the way with his iron elbow, Bell didn't hesitate at all and immediately struck Kobe with a vicious hand chop that sent hand and ball alike slicing through the air.
Seeing this, Kobe, whose hand was in pain, showcased his astonishing tolerance for pain.
