Paul George Reveals Truth About 76ers Decision

Paul George has a well-thought-out reason for choosing jersey No. 8 with the Philadelphia 76ers.

PG is a huge Kobe Bryant fan, and with the NBA icon actually coming from Philadelphia, the 34-year-old star felt it would be a great way to honor his "idol."

The former Los Angeles Clippers star said as much during the latest episode of his podcast, emphasizing: "It's my way of idolizing Kobe."

George previously wore No. 24--also one of Kobe's number with the Los Angeles Lakers--before switching it to No. 13 early in his career with the Indiana Pacers. Both numbers have been retired by the 76ers, however, forcing PG to make a change.

Wearing No. 8, which Bryant used in the first 10 years of his NBA career before changing to No. 24, is certainly a nice tribute from Paul George as he moves to the city where Kobe grew up.

It will be interesting to see how George will fare with a new team. But if he can show his Mamba Mentality a la Kobe, he should be more than fine as the 76ers aim for a title in 2024-25.

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