PHILADELPHIA >> The high school students spoke nervously as Kobe Bryant entered the classroom of his alma mater. The Lakers’ star soon broke the tension. He peppered the Lower Merion boys basketball team about its season. Aces coach Gregg Downer then asked Bryant about his film preparation with the Lakers.
But Bryant soon steered the conversation elsewhere, bringing up a grievance that has existed for more than two decades.
“Coach, remember what you told me before the state playoffs in the locker room that really pissed me off?” Bryant asked, a remark made in 2010 that was later recorded and posted.