26-06-2025
"I don't see why not" - When Kobe Bryant predicted the rise of international players in the NBA
Having spent a good portion of his childhood in Italy, Kobe Bryant was exposed to a style of basketball that was different from the well-known Western approach. As he embarked on his remarkable journey to stardom, Bryant not only honed his skills but also observed the profound impact the NBA had on basketball cultures around the globe.
In 2001, with an insightful perspective, KB predicted an influx of international players entering the NBA in the near future. Looking at the current landscape of the NBA, it is clear that his foresight proved to be accurate, with a diverse array of talent from various countries now playing in the league.
Advertisement
"I don't see why not," Bryant told CNN when asked if he thinks players from other countries could possibly play in the NBA. "I mean, it's just a game. No matter where you're from, it doesn't matter. If you pick up a basketball, and go on your driveway or go to the playground, and play basketball. The more you play, the better you get."
"If you look at the NBA now, you have a Chinese player [Wang Zhi-Zhi] playing for the Dallas Mavericks," he pointed out. "What happens is through communication through Satellite TV, people can now see the how the NBA is played and they get a chance to learn from these players. As a result, you'll see a lot more of foreign players coming into the NBA now."
Kobe never counted out what willpower could do
Renowned for his remarkable perseverance and mental toughness, Bryant faced criticism throughout his illustrious career, especially during his formative years. Like many basketball superstars, Kobe was also once just another aspiring athlete, dreaming of making it to the NBA.
Advertisement
Bryant recognized that while American players have a huge advantage in gaining opportunities to enter the NBA, this should not deter aspiring basketball players from other countries. The Los Angeles Lakers shooting guard firmly believed that with relentless dedication to improving their skills and an unwavering sense of hope, international athletes could also find their way into the NBA.
"It's more so your willpower and your drive to improve," the Lakers superstar remarked as he affirmed any international player could compete in the NBA. "You know, if you want to be a NBA basketball player, and you set yourself in the mind frame that you're not going to be denied, and that's what you want to accomplish, then you're going to accomplish it."
NBA is now plagued with international stars
Kobe's vision of a more globalized NBA has indeed come to fruition. In recent years, the number of international players coming into the NBA has remarkably surged. Moreover, many of these talented foreign athletes are not just playing; they are dominating the game.
Advertisement
This incredible trend can be attributed to the NBA's proactive efforts to cultivate a more diverse and competitive environment. It's a vision that the legendary Kobe predicted many years ago.
As a result, the NBA is not just a showcase for American talent but a melting pot of extraordinary skills and characters from all over the world. It not only illustrates the universal appeal of the NBA but also enhances the excitement and competitiveness of the sport.
Related: Kobe Bryant swore to never play with a dominant center after Shaquille O'Neal left: "Michael didn't, and Kobe didn't want to either"
