With the Lakers set to face the Celtics tonight at Staples Center, newly acquired guards MarShon Brooks and Kent Bazemore are set to play in their first game as a member of the purple and gold. For one player it seems that playing on the same team as Kobe Bryant is a dream come true.
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According to ESPN Los Angeles Writer Dave McMenamin, Bazemore grew up ‘idolizing’ the five-time champion:
New Laker Kent Bazemore said he grew up "idolizing" Kobe Bryant
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) February 21, 2014
With Kobe being one of, if not the best player in the past decade, it is understandable for Bazemore to have such respect for the five time champion. According to Lakers Reporter Mike Trudell, the idea of playing with Kobe excites Bazemore:
Bazemore has long been a big Bryant fan, said that was part of his excitement for this trade. Playing in D'Antoni's system also excited him.
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) February 21, 2014
Bazemore has been known for his standout Summer League play, but has yet to make a real impact on an NBA team. Hopefully with a fresh start and some advice from a legend like Kobe, Bazemore can grow into the type of two-way player scouts were expecting him to be out of college.
Kobe has been known to take toward younger players in the past, such as Andrew Goudelock and Nick Young, in hopes of helping them expand their game. Bazemore is sure to feel anxious the first time he plays with Kobe, but if he puts the effort in, Kobe will be there to help Bazemore develop his game.
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