At just 22 years old, Kyle Kuzma stood on the brink of an incredible journey, stepping into the esteemed world of the NBA.
Navigating such a high-stakes arena, he needed guidance. He found that invaluable mentor in the late, great Kobe Bryant, whose wisdom and legacy would become a beacon for the emerging star.
Even though the former Los Angeles Lakers champion and now Washington Wizards forward Kuzma, popularly known as "Kuz," never had the chance to share the court with the legendary Kobe Bryant, he still cherished him as his mentor.
To Kuzma, Kobe's influence was a guiding light, deeply shaping his journey and aspirations.
“He means the world; he means everything,” Kuzma said during his media press conference as part of his three-day visit to the Philippines as part of his Asian tour.
“I was very blessed and fortunate when I first came into the NBA to build my relationship with him. Ask him about a lot of different things, whether it was about basketball, life, relationships, business, what to do, or what not to do. Coming into the NBA being 22 years old and having somebody like that as my mentor is something,” he added.
The 2020 NBA champion fondly reflects on the treasured moments he shared with the Black Mamba.
“Dinner, working out with him, multiple dinners, everything. Phone calls, everything is really special because that is somebody that I really looked up to and somebody that I’ve always really taken interest in,” Kuzma said.
“Just pick a mind into his mindset, and how you approach certain things and certain situations at a young age for me was so great,” he added, looking back on the lessons he learned from the NBA legend.
On his Instagram story, Kuz greeted the Lakers icon on his birthday.
The NBA player is now in Quezon City, launching a hoop clinic with a heart full of passion, igniting dreams, and inspiring aspiring Filipino basketball players.
(With reports from Maureen Muarip/One Sports Digital)
