Image Source: X
[Saba Sports News] Paul George is bringing the Mamba Mentality to Philadelphia.
The Philadelphia 76ers announced over the weekend that George will wear the No. 8 jersey next season. On his show “Podcast P,” George explained that this choice pays tribute to the late Kobe Bryant, who wore No. 8 early in his NBA career.
“I’m in Philly,” George said. “My idol, the Bean. Kobe Bryant. My way of idolizing Kob. Something that meant something outside of 24 and 13 [George’s previous jersey numbers]. So it’s only right. It’s different.”
Bryant, a Philadelphia native, attended Lower Merion High School and wore No. 8 for the Los Angeles Lakers from 1996 to 2006 before switching to No. 24.
George used to work out with Bryant and even named his pet dog after him. With the No. 13 and No. 24 retired by the 76ers for Wilt Chamberlain and Bobby Jones, respectively, George chose No. 8 to honor Bryant in his hometown.