In a recent episode of “Podcast P,” six-time NBA All-Star DeMar DeRozan explored the iconic impact of Kobe Bryant and LeBron James at the Drew League, offering a unique perspective on their significance. DeRozan, who has previously praised Bryant as a major influence on his career, discussed the profound effect of both basketball legends participating in the legendary Los Angeles-based pro-am league, which often garners significant attention during the NBA offseason.
Kobe Bryant’s surprise appearance at the Drew League in 2011, during the NBA lockout, remains a memorable event. With an electrifying 43-point performance, including a game-winning shot over a young James Harden, Bryant left fans in awe. The scene was chaotic, as his adoring supporters mobbed him, and security struggled to maintain order. This rare appearance not only highlighted Bryant’s unmatched skills but also his commitment to giving back to the community in a unique setting.
LeBron James made his Drew League debut in the same year, 2011, during the lockout, and returned for the first time in over a decade in 2022. In his highly anticipated comeback, James delivered an impressive performance with 42 points, 16 rebounds, and four steals, showcasing his enduring dominance and versatility. The small gym was packed, with all eyes on the four-time MVP, proving his star power transcends the professional arena and resonates deeply with fans at every level.
DeRozan, a Compton native and lifelong Lakers fan, reflected on how these appearances by Bryant and James were more than just exhibition games; they were symbolic gestures of support for the community and the sport itself. “You got two iconic fixtures of our game playing in the hood, coming to support the community in a whole different way,” DeRozan remarked. He emphasized the significance of these appearances, noting how both players, despite their different styles and eras, brought their own form of greatness to the Drew League. “Like you pick your poison, you know? Whoever your favorite, that’s what you ride with but just for both of those guys to do something like that, it was like, ‘That’s legendary,’” he added.
The Drew League, known for its grassroots charm and vibrant local atmosphere, benefits immensely from such star power, which not only elevates the league’s profile but also provides fans with memorable experiences. The contrast between Bryant’s fiery presence and James’s commanding performance underscores the evolution of the game and the different eras of basketball excellence they represent.
DeRozan’s personal connection to Bryant adds depth to his comments. Having grown up idolizing the Lakers legend, DeRozan has often spoken about Bryant’s profound influence on his career. In a past interview, he revealed how Bryant’s mentorship and exemplary work ethic shaped his aspirations and approach to the game. The impact of Bryant’s legacy remains a poignant reminder of his contributions to the sport, especially as the anniversary of his tragic death approaches.
Tomorrow marks the four-year anniversary of Kobe Bryant’s passing. DeMar DeRozan on Kobe: “Everything about him inspired me to want to be a basketball player.” pic.twitter.com/aD1Gg6EIHQ
— Mark Medina (@MarkG_Medina) January 26, 2024
As DeRozan returns to California after a sign-and-trade deal that brought him to the Sacramento Kings, the nostalgia and connection to his roots remain strong. Even though he’s moved from the city of Los Angeles, the influence of Bryant and the legacy of the Iconic Drew League continue to resonate with him and many fans.
In the broader context, the Drew League’s role in bridging the gap between professional and community basketball is invaluable. The appearances by such high-profile players not only elevate the league’s status but also remind us of the deep connections that athletes can foster with local communities. These moments highlight the spirit of basketball and the enduring impact of legends like Kobe Bryant and LeBron James.
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