Kobe Bryant’s major warning to young Luka Doncic proved prophetic as Lakers star spills memorable encounter

Last season, Luka Doncic became the newest superstar-level talent to suit up for the LA Lakers. Ahead of his first full year with the team, he reflected on an encounter with one of the franchise’s all-time great talents.

Although Doncic never got the chance to play against him, he had some run-ins with Kobe Bryant before his tragic death in 2020. One of their most famous encounters was during the star guard’s rookie season with the Dallas Mavericks.

Bryant was taking in a game courtside with his daughter Gianna when he called out to Doncic in his native language. This caught him by surprise, but the two ended up sharing a warm embrace.

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During a recent interview with the Wall Street Journal, Luka Doncic was asked about his relationship with Bryant. He noted one piece of advice the Lakers legend gave to him that ended up being accurate.

"I remember meeting him first time before I start my NBA season," Doncic said. "There was one thing he said, watch out you're European they're gonna be after you and he was right."

Now donning the iconic purple and gold himself, Doncic will look to cement himself alongside Bryant and the rest of the all-time greats in Lakers history.

Luka Doncic and Kobe Bryant featured together in new California murual

Though their encounters were brief, Luka Doncic and Kobe Bryant are now forever intertwined through the history of the Lakers' franchise. Just weeks out from the 2026 season, one artist decided to honor the two stars in a special way.

Following the jaw-dropping blockbuster last year, it's clear what the Lakers' plans are moving forward. Equipped with an elite superstar who is just entering his prime, LA is looking to usher in a new era with Doncic. That said, fans will never forget the old guard.

On Tuesday, photos emerged of a new mural in Burbank, California. It primarily features Luka Doncic in his Lakers' threads, but also pays homage to the Bryant family. One side features the star guard taking photos with Gigi, while the other captures Doncic and Kobe's famous encounter as a rookie.

Doncic had to face a lot of outside noise last year as he navigated the major change in his career. He's been working diligently in the offseason to shed the negative connotations that followed him on his departure from the Dallas Mavericks.

Now with a new and improved physique, Doncic is poised to lead the Lakers to contention in the Western Conference.

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About the author

Kevin McCormick

Kevin McCormick is a basketball writer at Sportskeeda with over four years of experience in journalism and a bachelor's degree in Sports Management Marketing from Holy Family University.

Kevin has worked with various notable outlets throughout his career, including 97.3 ESPN, ClutchPoints, Heavy Sports, and Sports Illustrated/FanNation, before joining Sportskeeda in March 2022.

Specializing in NBA and WNBA coverage, Kevin's passion for basketball stems from his hometown team, the Philadelphia 76ers. Among his favorite players are Kevin Durant, Chet Holmgren, and Steph Curry, while his all-time favorites include Magic Johnson and Larry Bird.

Kevin holds Coach K in high regard for the large input he's had on the game helping mold players across multiple generations. Kevin believes the iconic rivalry between Larry Bird and Magic Johnson helped elevate the league to its current status.

Through his writing, Kevin provides in-depth analysis and insights into player and coach quotes. He prioritizes sourcing information from credible and reliable outlets.

Kevin enjoys reading, aiming to finish at least one book per month, and he is a big fan of music.

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