Lakers News: The NBA G League could use former Laker Kobe Bryant’s Mamba Sports Academy.
The NBA’s G League made national headlines by landing future projected lottery picks Jalen Green and Isiah Todd. Now they’re making Lakers news as rumors swirl that The Mamba Sports Academy, founded by the late Kobe Bryant, could be used as the headquarters for the newly formed “Select Team” in California.
Yahoo Sources: NBA, G League considering using Kobe Bryant’s Mamba Sports Academy as home base to newly formed “Select Team” for elite prep stars. https://t.co/ePhzAWkPAT pic.twitter.com/Re07A7f9Pw
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) April 20, 2020
This would be a huge win for the NBA because Kobe Bryant remains one of the most popular and iconic players in NBA history. In retirement, he was known for training players at The Mamba Sports Academy including Giannis Antetokounmpo, Kawhi Leonard, and Paul George.
He had a passion for giving back to the next generation and this seems like an appropriate next step for his legacy. Not only did Kobe train NBA players but he worked with players of all ages and women athletes. He was a true advocate for the advancement of basketball.
Aside from The Mamba Sports Academy being an excellent facility to host this new G League venture, Kobe himself is one of the most accomplished players to ever skip college and go directly to the NBA.
In 2017, Kobe told Jimmy Kimmel he would have gone to Duke if he chose to go to college but who could argue with the choice he made? Kobe Bryant is a 5 time NBA champion, MVP, 2x Finals MVP, and Hall of Famer among countless other accolades. Playing at his academy might mean something extra to these players literally trying to walk in his footsteps.
This new option the NBA has created for top tier prospects is an enticing one. According to Shams Charania of The Athletic compensation could reach as much as $1 million. With that kind of earning potential as well as the ability to sign endowment deals with the likes of Nike and Adidas, it seems likely more top prospects will choose this option.
"The earnings package for (Jalen) Green ... is believed to eclipse $1 million for the year."
— Stadium (@Stadium) April 16, 2020
Our NBA Insider @ShamsCharania breaks down Jalen Green, and Isaiah Todd, choosing the NBA G League over NCAA. pic.twitter.com/kuqTGoXcV0
The “Select Team” is also attracting former NBA coaches as Sam Mitchell, Brian Shaw, and David Fizdale are all being considered to coach the team. It’s clear the NBA is investing heavily in this product or else established coaches wouldn’t be interested.
It should be noted that nothing has been decided yet as The Mamba Sports Academy is not the only site being considered. The newly formed “Select Team” will not have any affiliation with the Los Angeles Lakers, South Bay Lakers, or any NBA team or their G League affiliates.