Russell Westbrook Gives Shocking Kobe Bryant Admission Following Pau Gasol’s Retirement

Several NBA analysts have compared Russell Westbrook to Kobe Bryant in terms of dedication and competitiveness. Kobe was one of the most competitive players the league has ever seen. The same goes to Westbrook. He likes to win and he came to Los Angeles to get his first ring. Westbrook joined the Lakers through a trade. The front office traded Kyle Kuzma, Montrezl Harrell, and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope to get the veteran.

Westbrook grew up watching Kobe. However, he wasn’t his idol. The Black Mamba wasn’t his favorite player. It was Kobe’s teammate, Pau Gasol. The Spanish native left the NBA and went back to Spain to retire as a basketball player. Gasol announced his retirement and didn’t forget to mention his great teammate. Gasol really wanted to see Kobe by his side, but it didn’t happen.

The newly-signed Lakers veteran took his time to honor Gasol. A lot of fans were really surprised to hear this. Kobe was the favorite player of many young players. He was a mentor and idol. He is a legend.

“I’ll tell you guys an interesting fact that nobody actually knows about me,” said Broddie. “Pau was actually my favorite player growing up, even before Kobe.”

Russell Westbrook idolized Kobe Bryant

Westbrook watched them beat opponents and win games.

“He could pass it, he could shoot it, he could score it. To me, I just liked how he played the game at his size,” he said. “I wouldn’t say I modeled my game after him, but I liked the way he played the game and always played it the right way. So that’s a little fun fact.”

Westbrook will have a huge role in his new team. The Lakers got him for a reason and he has already built strong connection with both LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Lakers head coach Frank Vogel watched them in practice and he is pretty excited about the new season. The Lakers lost the preseason opener to the Brooklyn Nets, but LeBron and Broddie weren’t playing. We can’t wait to see him on the court in the regular season.