I didn't expect this award [the 2008 MVP] would come to me. I'm surprised. I've played pretty well in other seasons. Our team hasn't been as good. Things just fell into place.

Great things come from hard work and perseverance. No excuses.

I was an idiot when I was a kid.

I'm reflective only in the sense that I learn to move forward. I reflect with a purpose.

Everything has a purpose. And that purpose has a story that goes along with it. It just depends on what your passion is.

Basketball is my refuge, my sanctuary. I go back to being a kid on the playground. When I get here, it's all good.

I have my own identity ... The whole Michael thing does drive me nuts sometimes because people won't leave it alone. He's bald, I have hair. He's almost 40, I'm 22. Seriously though, I wish people would let it be and let me just be Kobe.