Many NBA shooting guards of today mold their games after 5x Champion Kobe Bryant. The Black Mamba set the benchmark for hard work and dedication. However, he wasn’t the only iconic SG playing at the time. Miami Heat legend Dwyane Wade was one of the best players of his generation and he had a similar role to that of Bryant. A 6x All-Star, who considers Kobe his idol, revealed how the Flash became a bigger influence on him throughout his career.

On the ‘Iman Amongst Men’ podcast, DeRozan was asked about the toughest player he had to face on the court and the players from whom he drew inspiration. Reflecting on his early years, he recalled being primarily a shooting guard. He also recalled how he constantly found himself playing against Eastern rival, Dwyane Wade.

6x All-Star snubs Kobe Bryant for Dwyane Wade

Chicago Bulls star DeMar DeRozan spoke passionately about Wade’s lightning-fast moves and signature post-pump fake that left defenders bewildered. The 6x All-Star admitted that he took a page from Wade’s book by incorporating the pump fake into his own arsenal. He said, “I was primarily a two at the time so I always had to deal with DWade. He was a m*****f*****.”

Transitioning into the mid-range game, DeRozan emphasized how Wade’s skill set motivated him to pick his spots on the court, utilizing his athletic ability to drive effectively to the basket. He also mentioned how battling Wade more than Kobe due to the Flash being in the Eastern Conference truly pushed him to refine his skills. Wade’s ability to not rely heavily on three-point shooting inspired him as well.

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Recalling his rookie year, DeRozan fondly remembered the challenges of facing Wade on the court. He described how he was left in awe when Wade executed a one-dribble spin move to finish with a reverse dunk. After carefully analyzing Wade’s moves, DeRozan realized that simplicity was the key to success. Wade’s ability to perform the same moves while keeping defenders guessing impressed him.

DeRozan also admitted that observing Wade play and studying his style forced him to evolve his game. In addition, he also said, “If I don’t add this stuff to my game, how am I going to thrive in the two, three position?”?It was surprising to see DeRozan take Wade’s name as he has often admitted how big of an influence Bryant was on his career. However, he didn’t fail to give credit to the Black Mamba.

DeMar DeRozan praised his idol, Kobe Bryant as well

As the conversation went on, DeRozan acknowledged how Kobe Bryant had a significant impact on him. DeRozan said that he learned “everything” from him. Kobe’s work ethic and mastery of mid-range shots inspired DeRozan to push his limits. The ‘Mamba Mentality’ sparked a competitive spirit in him.

This still drives him to excel on the court. Kobe’s mentorship also made him mentally tougher and more dedicated to the game. He further said, “Obviously Kobe was my everything. I learned so much. But seeing DWade so much in the east, at the two position, you had to steal so much from the dude.”

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He concluded that playing with players like Kobe and Wade forced him to improve his game. He also said that these players inspired his playing style. It was by observing them that he could improve his game and learn new skills. What are your thoughts on DeRozan’s take? Let us know in the comments.