Kevon Looney made his official debut for the Los Angeles Lakers, stepping onto the floor against the Golden State Warriors – the franchise where his NBA career began and flourished.
The three-time NBA champion signed a one-year, $3.9 million deal with Los Angeles to provide veteran leadership, interior rebounding and defensive grit.
Stepping into a new role
Facing the team he spent ten seasons with, Looney embraced his fresh assignment in the Purple and Gold.
Sliding into a key bench role as the primary backup center behind Walker Kessler, Looney brought high-IQ screening and reliable effort to the Lakers’ frontcourt rotation during his roughly 10 minutes of action.
He finished the night with 4 points and 3 rebounds, contributing to a dominant 127-105 victory over Golden State.
A legacy beyond San Francisco
Drafted 30th overall by Golden State in 2015, Looney anchored the interior during three title runs before spending time in New Orleans. Seeing his former teammates from the opposite bench marked a powerful full-circle moment.
Lakers head coach JJ Redick commended Looney’s championship pedigree and seamless integration into the system. As the long NBA season unfolds, Looney’s experience will serve as a stabilizing force for Los Angeles in their hunt for postseason success.
