Every Sunday, it’s clear that Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby is what scouts call a “high mobility” player. He never stops giving his 100% best effort no matter what the situation.
As it turns out, Crosby was inspired by two of the best point guards in NBA history, Michael Jordan and the late Kobe Bryant.
After the Raiders beat the Patriots on Sunday — thanks to a buzzer-beating safety from Crosby and defensive tackle Bilal Nichols — Crosby revealed he’s been looking for Jordan and Bryant to thrive of “the zone,” whether it’s game day or when he’s preparing for the grill.
“Great players, Kobe, Jordan, they’re always at their best,” Crosby said, according to 8 News Now’s Logan Reever. “Whatever that is, whatever I need to do To be able to achieve that before game day, that’s what you have to address to stay ahead and be at the highest level.
“I’m always trying to be in the best shape of my life – in practice, in the weight room and certainly on Sunday when I’m on the field. When you get in the zone, it comes from preparation, mental strength and mental fortitude that keeps you in the zone. Everything you do in preparation remains consistent.”
Max Crosby mentioned Kobe and Jordan when talking about his mentality and winning:@crosbymax #RaiderNation #strategy pic.twitter.com/pNcALgl74J
— Logan Reever (@loganreever) October 16, 2023
Crosby mentioned that he wants to find the zone — let’s call it the “great zone” — at any time, not just on Sunday. That’s not surprising, as Crosby’s coaches and teammates generally agree that he always gives 100 percent effort, even in practice.
It’s no surprise that Crosby looked up to Jordan and Kobe. His torso is prominently decorated with large tattoos of each NBA legend, with boxing legend Muhammad Ali in the middle.
Raiders DE Maxx Crosby has some crazy tattoos. 🔥
(📸： @crosbymax) pic.twitter.com/bmEXJyrwpf
— Sports Betting Review (@SBRReview) August 23, 2023
The Raiders’ defense is off to a solid start to the season, with Crosby’s consistently high-level performance at the center of it. He still seems to be improving on the court, and his leadership skills are already outstanding.
If the defense wants to continue to improve its game, the entire team would be better off looking for great zones, just like Crosby. Not every player has Crosby’s skill set, but they can all give their best and strive for greatness on the court and elsewhere.
With 11 dynamic players on defense at all times, the Raiders’ chances of making the playoffs will increase exponentially. We already know Crosby is firing on all cylinders. All his teammates have to do is watch him as closely as possible, starting this week in Chicago against the Bears.