Getty Jayson Tatum began his sophomore season with a bang, scoring a near double-double in the Celtics' win.
Since his retirement, Kobe Bryant has remained in the NBA world, seamlessly donning his new role as one of the most coveted skills coaches the sport has to offer. The off-season saw him spending time with players like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Kawhi Leonard, and the Celtics’ breakout star Jayson Tatum.
His work with Tatum was evident in the Celtics’ season opener against the 76ers, as Tatum shook defenders with a flair and confidence that had “Mamba Mentality” written all over it.
The hesitation step-back three near the corner, in particular, was so Kobe-esque you could almost see a loosely-fitting #24 Lakers jersey blowing in the wind. Even if it hadn’t been old news that Tatum’s been working with Bryant, his play on opening night would have spilled the beans.
That Looked Familiar
Announcers, Instagram, and Twitter all took notice immediately, pointing out the clear parallels between the sophomore player and the Lakers legend.
Some people had nothing but praise for the imitation:
While others had some shade to throw:
Kobe after seeing Jayson Tatum go 3-13 with 0 assists
But regardless of any help rendered, NBA skills coach Drew Hanlen insisted that all the credit go to the young player:
Mamba in the Making
In a video interview with NBC sports Boston, Tatum admitted that Kobe Bryant has always been his favorite player, and he has always aspired to play like him. When asked about the similarities in his game, Tatum said, “I stole a lot of things from Kobe. But just to see it, like, back to back, my moves and his moves, it’s pretty cool.”
Tatum’s love for and similarities to Kobe isn’t exactly news. There are plenty of YouTube comparison videos showcasing the influence the elder player has had on the younger. But that doesn’t make it any less stunning to see those moves resurrected by the 20-year-old Tatum.
What’s almost more surprising is that Kobe copycats aren’t more common. If a young player needs someone to emulate on the basketball court, it might as well be Kobe Bryant.
There’s no shame in stealing a few moves, and Tatum proved it. He ended the night with a near double-double: 23 points, 9 rebounds, and 3 assists in the Celtics’ rout of the 76ers on opening night.