When you think of the championships the Lakers won in 2009 and 2010, one player is the legendary Kobe Bryant. But, remember when the franchise three-peated from 2000-2002, Kobe had a dependable big man to work with? Well, for the 2009 and 2010 championships, it was Kobe Bryant and his teammate Pau Gasol. The European big man made his mark during his time as a Laker.
Let’s look back on the career of Pau Gasol.
European Legacy + NBA Arrival
Gasol’s talent was evident from a young age. He led FC Barcelona to numerous titles in his native Spain, establishing himself as a dominant force in European basketball. He also represented Spain on the international stage, winning a World Championship in 2006 and two Olympic Silver Medals. A force to be reckoned with on the international scene.
Pau Gasol’s hometown of Sant Boi de Llobregat in Spain put up a giant jersey ahead of his Lakers number retirement on March 7 🙌
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) March 3, 2023
(via @Lakers) pic.twitter.com/UQemDo1mHq
Selected 3rd overall in the 2001 NBA Draft by the Memphis Grizzlies, Gasol’s talent was highly coveted. However, his early years in Memphis were marked by a lack of team success. The team finished over .500 in just three of his seven seasons with the team. But, Gasol did win Rookie of the Year and was an All-Star in 2005.
Despite limited team wins, Gasol blossomed into a well-rounded big man, showcasing his ability to score, rebound, and pass with exceptional skill. In his seven seasons with the team, he averaged 18.8 PPG, 8.6 RPG, and 3.1 APG.
Championship Glory in Los Angeles
In 2008, Pau Gasol was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers, forming a formidable duo with Kobe Bryant. Together, they led the Lakers to back-to-back championships in 2009 and 2010. His skillset complemented Kobe’s perfectly. He provided scoring inside the paint, passing, and defensive versatility, taking pressure off the legendary Bryant and creating a potent offensive attack.
Gasol’s place among Lakers legends was cemented thanks to the two championships he contributed to. He was a key piece of the puzzle during their dominant period.
In his seven seasons with Los Angeles, he averaged nearly a double-double (18 PPG and 10 RPG). Gasol was also a three-time All-Star during his time in the Purple & Gold.
Career Twilight and Continued Impact
Gasol continued to play at a high level for several teams after his Lakers stint. He was an All-Star for the Chicago Bulls in 2014 and 2015. Unfortunately, his numbers decreased the years after, as he played for the San Antonio Spurs and Milwaukee Bucks in the later years.
Regardless, he remained a respected veteran and a global ambassador for the game of basketball. Off the court, Gasol has been a vocal advocate for social justice and humanitarian causes. He continues to use his platform to make a positive impact beyond basketball. Most notably, he’s been keeping an eye for Kobe Bryant’s family after his teammate’s unfortunate death a few years ago.
A Well-Rounded Player During His Career
While Gasol’s scoring and rebounding averages were impressive, his true value went beyond statistics. His basketball IQ, passing ability, and ability to stretch the floor for a big man made him a valuable teammate. He leaves behind a legacy of championship pedigree, international success, and a well-rounded skillset. Gasol is not just a Lakers legend, but a global icon who transcended the game with his talent, sportsmanship, and dedication to social causes.
Make sure to visit Belly Up Sports every week and follow me on Twitter/X! Also, check out my podcast “Backup to the Backup” on Spotify and YouTube for more NFL content from me.
Featured Image: Harry How/Getty Images
