![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Untitled-design-40-2-26.png?width=600)
via Imago
Image Courtesy: IMAGO
![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Untitled-design-40-2-26.png?width=600)
via Imago
Image Courtesy: IMAGO
Numerous qualities contribute to a player’s greatness. However, when the renowned general manager of the Los Angeles Lakers, Rob Pelinka, chose to commend a 25-year-old star, he brought Taylor Swift into the conversation. Quite an unconventional way to show appreciation for the player. Nevertheless, it appears that fans are seizing the opportunity to engage with this matter. While fans agreed with Pelinka comparing the Lakers player with the legend Kobe Bryant, one particular aspect of his conversation captured their attention.
During a discussion at the introductory press conference for the 2023-24 season, Rob Pelinka expressed his admiration for Austin Reaves. He shared his belief that the 25-year-old guard possesses certain qualities reminiscent of Lakers legend Bryant.
Leaving Taylor Swift in the background, Kobe Bryant?s legacy shines over Austin Reaves
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Celebrities are familiar with rumors that swirl like a relentless storm in their lives. While some gossip can hold a kernel of truth, some are outlandish fabrications, like Reaves dating superstar Taylor Swift.
![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2023-03-18T055128Z_1972993987_MT1USATODAY20259061_RTRMADP_3_NBA-DALLAS-MAVERICKS-AT-LOS-ANGELES-LAKERS.jpg?width=150&blur=15)
USA Today via Reuters
Mar 17, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves (15) reacts after scoring the basket and drawing he foul against the Dallas Mavericks during the second half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
During the interview, Pelinka acclaimed the player for his skills and said, ?He’s not getting caught up in media rumors about who he’s dating (indicating to Swift). Or anything else. He’s about the business and he’s about the game and that’s why we love him and that’s why we’re proud that he chose us this summer.”
Watch This Story: LeBron James, Steph Curry, and Naomi Osaka join hands to push the Marvel franchise
Pelinka also mentioned, “I think core qualities line up with the tenants of the ‘Mamba gene.’ We all got to see Kobe’s career and what he stood for and no player can be compared to Kobe Bryant but I think players today can carry genes of what he represented.”
The comments came after the rumors of Reaves dating the singer started to circulate on the internet. Days before the shooting guard?s game at the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup, the rumors received some hilarious reactions from fans.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Austin Reaves and Taylor Swift?
After much speculation, the rumors were firmly refuted. During a podcast, Reaves addressed how these rumors were unfounded, emphasizing that he rarely participates in social activities off the court. Both Reaves and fans were puzzled by the origins of these groundless rumors. The 25-year-old’s remarks on the ‘Full Send Podcast’ left fans convinced that there was indeed no truth to the rumors.
However, the situation hasn’t changed much for the singer. She has now found herself entangled in dating rumors with NFL star Travis Kelce. However, there is much more evidence to back up that claim.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
While the truth remains undisclosed, Pelinka’s comments injected a new dimension into the ongoing discussion. What are your thoughts on the idea that Reaves may possess Mamba genes? Feel free to share your opinions with us.
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT