Joel Embiid acknowledges Kobe Bryant as his basketball inspiration, Joel Embiid’s inspiration from Kobe Bryant attributes his desire to dominate the Lakers. While Bryant was renowned for his contributions to the Lakers, he might have unknowingly fueled Embiid’s intense prowess against Los Angeles.
Coming off his first MVP win last season, Embiid’s current season with the Philadelphia 76ers has been outstanding. His game statistics have soared (32 PPG, 11.3 RPG, 6.6 APG, 49.8 FG%), and his recent standout performance against the Lakers (30 PTS, 11 REB, 11 AST, 9-15 FGM) was arguably his best this season.
Joel Embiid’s Inspiration from Kobe Bryant
Embiid’s basketball journey began unconventionally in Cameroon, starting basketball at 15 before moving to the US at 16. He credits Bryant and the Lakers for igniting his passion for basketball during the Finals against Boston at 13, marking the inception of his love for the game and admiration for Bryant.
Following another strong game against Los Angeles, Embiid believes his idolization of Bryant and the Lakers fuels his exceptional performances against them and motivates him to excel in every game.
Although Bryant played a different position as a guard compared to Embiid as a center, Embiid’s style bears resemblance to Bryant’s, leading some to liken him to a seven-foot-tall version of Bryant.
Despite Bryant’s positive impact on the Lakers and the NBA, Los Angeles might rue the effect Bryant’s inspiration has had on Embiid, as his remarkable performances against the Lakers continue to soar (31.5 PPG, 10 RPG, 5.3 APG, 57.4 FG%).
As Embiid, inspired by Bryant, continues to elevate his game, it forebodes challenging times for the Lakers and any other team facing him.
Comments