Los Angeles Lakers legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was not only a dominant force on the basketball court, but also a mentor to young players in the NBA. One of those players was Ivica Zubac, a Croatian center who was drafted by the Lakers in 2016.
Abdul-Jabbar, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in NBA history, took a special interest in Zubac during his early years in the league. As a fellow center, Abdul-Jabbar saw potential in the young player and wanted to help him develop into a successful player.
Zubac was just 19 years old when he joined the Lakers and was still adjusting to the fast-paced and physical style of the NBA. As a 7-foot center, he had the height and size to be a dominant force, but he needed guidance and mentorship to reach his full potential.
Abdul-Jabbar, who had a successful career with the Lakers, winning six NBA championships and being named the league’s MVP six times, was the perfect mentor for Zubac. He had the experience, knowledge, and skills to help the young player improve his game.
The two first met during Zubac’s rookie season, and Abdul-Jabbar immediately took the young center under his wing. He would often attend Lakers practices and offer advice to Zubac on his footwork, post moves, and defensive techniques.
Zubac was in awe of Abdul-Jabbar and was grateful for the opportunity to learn from a legend. In an interview, he said, “Having Kareem Abdul-Jabbar as a mentor is a dream come true. I grew up watching him dominate on the court, and now he’s teaching me how to do the same.”
Abdul-Jabbar’s guidance and mentorship had a significant impact on Zubac’s development. In his second season with the Lakers, Zubac’s numbers improved, and he became a valuable player off the bench. He also had the opportunity to play alongside Lakers superstar, Kobe Bryant, who also had high praise for the young center’s improvement.
But it wasn’t just about on-court skills that Abdul-Jabbar helped Zubac with. He also taught him about the importance of being a leader and a role model. Abdul-Jabbar was known for his professionalism and his dedication to the game, and he instilled those values in Zubac.
As Zubac’s game continued to improve, so did his confidence. He became more vocal on the court and took on a leadership role within the Lakers’ young team. His hard work and dedication did not go unnoticed, and he was rewarded with a starting position in his third season with the Lakers.
Unfortunately, Abdul-Jabbar’s mentorship of Zubac came to an end when he left the Lakers organization in 2018. However, the impact he had on Zubac’s career will always be remembered.
In an interview, Zubac said, “Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is not just a basketball legend, but he’s also a great mentor and friend. I will always be grateful for the time he spent with me and the lessons he taught me. He helped shape me into the player I am today.”
Abdul-Jabbar’s influence on Zubac’s career is a testament to his dedication to the game and his desire to help young players succeed. His mentorship of Zubac is just one example of the impact he has had on the NBA and the players who have had the privilege of learning from him.
In conclusion, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s interest in mentoring Ivica Zubac during his early years in the NBA is a testament to his passion for the game and his desire to help young players succeed. Zubac’s improvement and growth as a player is a direct result of Abdul-Jabbar’s guidance and mentorship. The legacy of Abdul-Jabbar’s mentorship will continue to inspire and motivate young players for years to come.