The Los Angeles Lakers made a significant offseason addition by acquiring Marcus Smart, a defensive specialist who is enthusiastic about joining the iconic franchise. Smart recently opened up about his NBA journey, including a defining early-career experience when he was assigned to guard the legendary Kobe Bryant, a moment that left a lasting impression on him.
Reflecting on the Honor of Guarding a Legend
Smart described the experience with deep emotion, recalling the mix of nerves and pride he felt during that matchup.
“It still feels like a dream,”
he admitted, highlighting how meaningful it is to now wear the Lakers’ colors. He vividly remembered the early days of his career when he faced Bryant on the court.
“Honestly, I was shaking,” Smart shared about the challenge of defending one of basketball’s greatest players. He also revealed the personal significance the moment held:
“All I’m thinking is my mom is watching me guarding Kobe. My brother’s watching me guard Kobe right now. Like, I hope somebody got a picture of this.”
— Marcus Smart, Lakers guard
In that instant, Smart was fully conscious of the honor and responsibility that came with competing alongside and against a true basketball icon.
Adopting the Mamba Mentality as a Laker
Smart explained how he aims to embody the Mamba Mentality, a philosophy of relentless focus, patience, and fierce competitiveness inspired by Kobe Bryant. The transition to the Lakers has only intensified this connection.
“To embody the Mamba Mentality and now to be a Laker with that mentality, it just amplifies it,”
Smart stated, emphasizing the influence Kobe’s legacy has on his mindset as he begins this new phase of his career.
A Defensive Foundation Shaping His Career
Before joining the Lakers, Smart spent nine seasons with the Boston Celtics, gaining a reputation as a defensive cornerstone. His strong collegiate career at Oklahoma State University included leading the Big 12 conference in steals for two consecutive seasons, setting the stage for his NBA defensive success.
His professional accolades include three selections to the NBA All-Defensive Team and earning the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award for the 2021-22 season. After his time in Boston, Smart also contributed to the Memphis Grizzlies, averaging 14.5 points and 2.1 steals per game in limited appearances before injuries curtailed his last season.
Last year, a finger injury restricted him to just 34 games across the Grizzlies and Washington Wizards, but he remains focused on returning to full strength.
Looking Ahead to a Fresh Start with the Lakers
At 31 years old, Smart is motivated to recapture his top defensive form and help the Lakers address perimeter defense challenges from previous seasons. The team’s acquisition of Smart signals a commitment to strengthening their defensive identity as they aim for a competitive resurgence.
By embracing the Mamba Mentality, Smart not only honors Kobe Bryant’s enduring influence but also signals his dedication to leadership and excellence with the Lakers going forward. Fans can anticipate his tenacity and discipline contributing significantly to the team’s defensive efforts in the upcoming season.