It is not uncommon for people to be inspired by KobeThe Los Angles Lakers have a storied history. As such, players that don the purple and gold face the pressure of living up to the expectations of the NBA’s most-winning franchise. This year’s Lakers draft pick certainly has his work cut out for him. But in the pre-season, his words have made fans happy. The team’s first-round pick from the 2023 NBA Draft recently revealed Kobe Bryant to be his inspiration since he was a kid.

The 20-year-old shooting guard disclosed how Mamba, the five-time champion, was the only person he could think of when the Lakers announced his selection. 

Pre-Game Interaction With ESPN

Jalen Hood-Schifino was picked 17th overall in this year’s draft. He’s already been balling for LA during the Summer League, and fans are rightly excited about the 20-year-old. Last night, Jalen and the Lakers went up against the Boston Celtics in Las Vegas.

During the pre-game interview, Jalen was asked a couple of questions in a segment with ESPN. The official Lakers account posted the clip on Twitter.

One of the questions raised was about his instant reaction to being picked by one of the NBA’s most historic franchises. The reporter asked, “when you got to draft night and they called your name and it was the Lakers, what kind of ran through your mind?”

Responding to the question, the Pennsylvania native revealed, “Honestly the first thing that came to my mind was Kobe Bryant.”

He later explained how he looked up to Kobe’s skillset growing up. The former Indiana player mentioned, “I’ve been loving Kobe since I was a kid. Always dreamt about him. It’s like completing a full circle.”

To achieve your dreams by joining the team of your idol is truly heartwarming. But now, the work begins for the young gun. Players being inspired by Kobe is not uncommon. But to live up to the icon is a whole different ballgame.

Kobe, An Inspiration To Many

Known for his extraordinary work ethic, relentless determination and unmatched dedication to the sport, Kobe set a standard of excellence for athletes at all levels.

His remarkable journey from a high school prodigy to a five-time NBA champion showcased the transformative power of hard work. Kobe’s legendary ‘Mamba Mentality’ emphasizes his relentless pursuit of excellence. Players feared the 18-time all-star for his ambitious hunger to constantly improve. And boy, did he continuously improve!

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Beyond his physical abilities, the 2008 NBA MVP possessed extraordinary mental resilience. He faced numerous challenges throughout his career. From injuries to personal setbacks, the Mamba always found a way to bounce back stronger.

Young athletes like Jalen Hood-Schifino learned from his determination. Kobe Bryant’s impact on aspiring athletes trying to make it in the NBA cannot be overstated.

He remains a symbol of what it takes to achieve greatness, inspiring a generation of basketball.

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