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Before Anthony Davis became the dominant force that he is today, he was a lanky 19-year-old entering the league. However, AD’s talent was identified even before he stepped foot on the court, by none other than Kobe Bryant.

AD and Bryant were part of the 2012 USA Olympics team that won a gold medal. While Kobe was in the final stretch of his career, Davis was just getting started. But did you know, Kobe actually took AD under his wing with no ulterior moves?

ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne revealed a conversation that Davis’ father had with Kobe back in 2012.

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When we first got there, Kobe came over to us and said, ‘Mr. Davis, I got your boy with me. I’m taking the young fella under my wing. He’s going everywhere I go this whole Olympics.’ And that’s what he did. Wherever Kobe went, Anthony went.”

Fast forward to 2020, Davis about to win his first NBA championship with the Lakers. However, his mentor Kobe Bryant is longer in this world to see him succeed. Davis and the Lakers are well aware of what is at stake here. They always pay tribute to the late legend whenever they can.

In the WCF, AD drained a dagger to seal Game 2 vs the Denver Nuggets. Following AD’s clutch three, he yelled “Kobe!” while wearing the magical Black Mamba jerseys.

Winning it for Kobe Bryant: The biggest motivation for the LA Lakers

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USA Today via Reuters

The Los Angeles Lakers stand just two more wins away from winning the glorious NBA title. They have worked hard the entire season to reach at this stage. This wouldn’t have been possible without superstars LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

The dynamic duo has been the leaders for this Laker team the entire regular season and postseason. While Davis mostly takes care of scoring and snatching boards, LBJ is the true facilitator of this team. The true dominance of the duo was on full display in Game 2 victory over Miami.

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James’ performance of 33 points, 9 boards, and 9 assists along with AD’s 32 points and 14 rebounds outing were too much to handle for the Heat. As a result, the Heat defense crumbled and put LA one step closer to winning it all for Kobe.

But what do you think? Can the Lakers finish off the Heat in four or five games, or will the Heat make a miraculous comeback?