Many basketball players dream of learning from a legend like Kobe Bryant.
For D’Angelo Russell, this dream came true during his rookie season with the Los Angeles Lakers, coinciding with Bryant’s final year. A veteran like Bryant, rich in experience and knowledge, can significantly influence a young player’s career.
However, the young player must be receptive to this guidance, which Russell admits he initially wasn’t.
Appearing on the “Run Your Race” podcast, Russell reflected on his time with Bryant. At 18, Russell was more focused on making Bryant laugh than absorbing his lessons.
Bryant, always serious, saw potential in Russell and offered guidance like an older brother, but Russell’s youth and inexperience made it hard for him to fully grasp the advice at the time. Over the years, these lessons began to resonate with him, shaping his approach to the game.
Russell described the experience as a blur, where he was constantly moving and not fully appreciating Bryant’s mentorship. Despite this, he later realized the value of the insights Bryant shared, which helped him grow into a significant NBA player and a crucial part of the Lakers.
Despite his growth, Russell’s future with the Lakers remains uncertain. The team is exploring trade options, including a potential deal involving Portland Trail Blazers forward Jerami Grant. However, the Blazers are reportedly not interested in acquiring Russell, given their roster of young guards like Scoot Henderson, Anfernee Simons, and Shaedon Sharpe.
The Lakers will need to find another strategy to secure Grant if they are determined to bring him to Los Angeles.
