KUZ!!!!

Nov 3, 2024

3 min read

Kyle Kuzma’s basketball journey is one of resilience, style, and undeniable talent. Born and raised in Flint, Michigan, Kuzma grew up in a challenging environment, but his love for basketball was always his driving force. He attended Bentley High School, where he was known for his raw talent, eventually transferring to Rise Academy in Philadelphia to gain more exposure and refine his skills. After high school, he earned a scholarship to the University of Utah, where he played three seasons for the Utes. Kuzma’s college career was marked by steady improvement, with his junior year standing out as he averaged 16.4 points and 9.3 rebounds per game, catching the attention of NBA scouts with his scoring ability, versatility, and rebounding prowess.

Kyle Kuzma entered the 2017 NBA Draft as an under-the-radar prospect but quickly became a breakout player. Initially selected 27th overall by the Brooklyn Nets, Kuzma was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers on draft night. He was known for his versatility as a forward, his three-point shooting potential, and his readiness to adapt on both ends of the floor. Kuzma’s hustle, paired with his scoring touch, made him an instant fan favorite.

In his rookie season with the Lakers, Kuzma averaged 16.1 points and 6.3 rebounds per game, emerging as one of the best players in his draft class. His numbers were solid across his time with the Lakers, averaging around 12.8 points and 4.5 rebounds per game by the end of his tenure there. Under the guidance of coaches Luke Walton and then Frank Vogel, Kuzma grew as a player, adjusting his game to complement superstars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis. His time with the Lakers included winning the 2020 NBA Championship, where he played a key supporting role.

During his Lakers years, Kuzma shared the court with some of the league’s biggest names. His initial seasons were spent alongside young talent like Lonzo Ball, Brandon Ingram, and Josh Hart. But when the Lakers pivoted to a championship-winning roster, Kuzma found himself in the company of veterans like LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Rajon Rondo. Playing with these legends gave Kuzma invaluable experience, helping him refine his game under immense pressure.

Kuzma’s development was also influenced by the coaching styles of Luke Walton and Frank Vogel. Walton, known for his player-friendly approach, provided a supportive environment in Kuzma’s early years. With Vogel, Kuzma learned the importance of defensive discipline and adaptability, especially during the Lakers’ 2020 title run. This period taught him how to be a valuable contributor, even when not in the primary scoring role, showcasing his team-oriented play and resilience.

Beyond his skills on the court, Kuzma became known for his flamboyant personality and fearless fashion choices. He’s no stranger to turning heads with outfits that range from oversized pink sweaters to avant-garde trench coats and colorful patterns that only he could pull off. His daring looks often mirror his style of play: confident, creative, and unapologetically unique. Kuzma’s fashion choices represent his individuality, and he’s never been afraid to push the boundaries of NBA fashion, bringing a splash of excitement and unpredictability to the league.

Kuzma’s vibrant spirit reminds me a bit of life as a student at the University of Colorado Boulder, especially this past week. Just like Kuzma brings energy and creativity with his outfits, being a Boulder student right now feels like a thrilling and lively experience. We had one cold day this week, but otherwise, the weather has been amazing, with the campus bursting with fall colors and excitement. There’s an extra spark of pride now that CU is finally bowl eligible and even ranked—it’s an exciting time for Buffs football!

With Halloween in full swing, I had a chance to embrace my own inner Kuzma by getting into the spirit with costumes. I spent one night dressed up as Dr. Evil and another as a Dodger Dog. Halloween is such a great excuse to step out of the everyday and have fun with fashion, a bit like Kuzma does with his funky outfits. There’s something about Halloween that lets us all be a little extra, embracing that playful and unpredictable side, just like Kyle Kuzma does every time he steps out for a game or a photoshoot.

This week’s combination of beautiful fall weather, Buffs football excitement, and Halloween spirit really brought out the Boulder community’s energy and individuality, making it feel like we’re all channeling a little bit of Kuzma’s fearless and fun-loving vibe. Whether it’s on the court or at a Halloween party, there’s something special about stepping out with confidence, a lesson Kuzma lives by and one we can all bring into our lives.