Kobe Bryant says he's Mike Brown's biggest supporter

Kobe Bryant says he’s Mike Brown’s biggest supporter

Lakers guard Kobe Bryant exits the court in the final seconds of a 95-86 loss to the Jazz on Wednesday night in Utah.

By Eric Pincus

Nov. 8, 2012 12 AM PT

Video of a disturbed Kobe Bryant sitting on the bench late in the Lakers’ loss to the Utah Jazz has gone viral as the “Kobe Death Stare.”

Coach Mike Brown can be seen briefly and appears to be the target of Bryant’s anger. On Thursday, after practice, Bryant debunked that his ire was directed at Brown.

“I’m too old to deal with that stuff. I really am,” said Bryant. “I’ve been his biggest supporter. I’m really too old to be dealing with childish things.”

The Lakers’ 1-4 start has led some fans to blame Brown for the team’s poor performance (even with point guard Steve Nash sitting out three games because of a non-displaced leg fracture).

In that context, the clip could certainly be interpreted to read that Bryant similarly holds Brown in contempt. According to the Lakers All-Star guard, that’s just not the case.

“Everybody here would be frustrated, losing a game. You’re angry. It has nothing to with one particular person,” he said. “God, people are bored.”

Bryant later viewed the clip on a reporter’s phone, calling it ridiculous.

Naturally the Lakers as a group are frustrated and disappointed with their performance. Perhaps the upcoming schedule of six-straight home games will help.

At this time, it doesn’t appear management is looking to make a coaching change.