Stephen Curry's Kobe Bryant story leaves basketball world emotional on Hot Ones

Los Angeles, California - NBA champion Stephen Curry's courageous and spicy Hot Ones challenge took an emotional turn as he shared heartwarming stories about basketball legend Kobe Bryant, leaving fans and players touched and teary-eyed.

Stephen Curry's fiery Hot Ones challenge turned emotional with a touching tribute to Kobe Bryant (l.), leaving the basketball world teary-eyed.
Stephen Curry's fiery Hot Ones challenge turned emotional with a touching tribute to Kobe Bryant (l.), leaving the basketball world teary-eyed.  © JED JACOBSOHN / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / GETTY IMAGES VIA AFP

On Thursday, Steph Curry bravely took on the fiery Hot Ones challenge alongside host Sean Evans in an epic appearance on the show.

As he chowed down on super spicy wings, the Gold State Warrior guard was captured hilariously gasping for air, creating an entertaining moment that quickly went viral.

Amidst all the laughter and tears from the spicy wings, Curry also used the moment to share a heartwarming story about the legendary Kobe Bryant.

Caitlin Clark drops three-word message for new WNBA team
Athletes Caitlin Clark drops three-word message for new WNBA team

During the interview, Curry recalled a moment during his rookie season when the cameras panned on Bryant, who was caught complimenting young Curry's hoops skills.

He called Bryant's kind words one of the best compliments he's ever received.

In a separate story, the Golden State Warrior spoke of a preseason game when the Hall of Famer tapped him from behind, showing respect - a moment Curry tried so hard not to become starstruck by.

Basketball fans react to Stephen Curry's touching Kobe Bryant stories

Stephen Curry's stories of the late Kobe Bryant (r.) left a lasting impression on fans who watched his interview on Hot Ones.
Stephen Curry's stories of the late Kobe Bryant (r.) left a lasting impression on fans who watched his interview on Hot Ones.  © EZRA SHAW / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / GETTY IMAGES VIA AFP

Curry's reflection of Bryant was a powerful reminder of the former Los Angeles Lakers superstar's impact on and off the court, leaving the basketball community reaching for tissues to wipe away the emotional response.

"These Stories are pretty cool. Kobe on another level but amazing to think the impact you can have on others. Good people inspire good things," one fan tweeted.

"I'll never get tired of hearing 'Kobe stories.' - He's arguably the most influential athlete of all time. My GOAT!" another added.

Caitlin Clark continues to make history with WNBA Draft style and record jersey sales
Athletes Caitlin Clark continues to make history with WNBA Draft style and record jersey sales

"I might've teared up a little bit," another fan said.

Thanks to NBA figures like Curry, Bryant's legacy will remain a timeless source of inspiration, forever uniting and inspiring the basketball community.

Cover photo: Collage: JED JACOBSOHN & EZRA SHAW / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / GETTY IMAGES VIA AFP

More on Athletes: