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USA Today Sports Media Group
USA Today Sports Media Group
Sport
Robert Marvi

Jalen Hood-Schifino says he grew up a fan of Kobe Bryant

It is rare for a standout basketball player at even the college level to get drafted into the NBA. It is even more rare for such a player to get drafted by the team he rooted for growing up or the team that had a player he loved.

On Thursday, the Los Angeles Lakers took Indiana University guard Jalen Hood-Schifino with the No. 17 pick in the 2023 NBA Draft. Some don’t love the pick, as he does have some weaknesses, but his strengths, such as his defensive versatility, passing and midrange game, make him an intriguing pick.

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After the Lakers drafted him, he said that he had always been a fan of the late great Kobe Bryant (h/t Silver Screen and Roll).

In fact, when executive Rob Pelinka asked Hood-Schifino who he would like to have lunch with, whether that person is living or dead, he said Bryant.

Perhaps his love for Bryant will inspire him to work that much harder and smarter on his game in order to reach his potential in the NBA.

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