A year after getting advice from Kobe, Davis ready to lead Pelicans
Fresh off inking a five-year deal to remain with the New Orleans Pelicans last summer, Anthony Davis sought advice on how to lead a team.
He turned to someone whom he played with on Team USA in 2012, someone who embodies leadership. That someone was Kobe Bryant.
The Los Angeles Lakers legend, who retired after the 2015-16 campaign, told Davis that a leader challenges his teammates, and is more concerned about them respecting him than liking him.
"A guy has something in his teeth, and other guys just talk to him and let him be. They're not going to tell him," Bryant told Davis, as relayed to Kevin Ding of Bleacher Report.
"I'm going to be the guy to tell you you've got something between your teeth. Then it's on you whether you want to walk around looking stupid. But I am going to tell you."
That message wasn't lost on the Pelicans big man, but he didn't apply it right away. Typically quiet and laid-back, Davis deferred as veterans Kendrick Perkins and Quincy Pondexter were the leaders in the locker room last season.
The 23-year-old understands, though, that he needs to step up and become a vocal leader on the squad. That's what he's set out to do entering his fifth year.
"I know in order for us to win, in order for us to have success, I've got to get out of my comfort zone," Davis said. "That's what I'm determined to do this year."
Like The Black Mamba, the three-time All-Star is leading by example with his tireless work ethic. He's taking a softer approach when it comes to addressing his teammates, however, opting to be kind in encouraging them and offering constructive criticism.
So far, head coach Alvin Gentry is impressed with the progress Davis has made toward becoming a great leader and role model.
"He's made unbelievable advancements in the year that I've been here," Gentry said. "We talk all the time. He has taken on more of a verbal leadership role already. The guys respect him, and I think the great thing about him is that he respects his teammates.
"He wants to be one of the guys, but I think he has realized that: 'I'm one of the guys, but I'm the leader. So there are certain things I've got to step up and do.'"
Davis posted 24.3 points, 10.3 rebounds, and two blocks - all team highs - last year.