Lakers News
Sandro Mamukelashvili understands how special it is to be a Laker.
Jul 18, 2026, 3:24 PM UTC
Every player showers the team they joined with praise upon signing. However, with the Lakers, it’s typically a bit more authentic.
The Lakers are a big brand and garner attention and respect that few NBA teams can. Given their rich history and championships, players often enter the franchise with strong emotions about the Lakers.
Sandro Mamukelashvili is no exception.
In an exclusive interview with Khobi Price of the California Post, he outlined why he’s excited to don the purple and gold this upcoming season.
“Just the name itself – all of the legends play for the Lakers,” Mamukelashvili told the Post of why he signed with the Lakers. “The organization is a very high-level organization. They’re starting a new page and it’s just unbelievable to be part of it.”
Mamukelashvili, who got a “Mamba Mentality” tattoo while he was in college at Seton Hall, grew up a fan of late Lakers icon Kobe Bryant.
“I could only imagine this really in 2K, that I would be playing for this team,” Mamukelashvili said. “I’m so excited, so happy. The coaching staff is amazing and I can’t wait to just put the jersey on, go out there and just play my heart out every night. You gotta have a chip on your shoulder when you play for the Lakers.”
It’s one thing for a player to compliment the Lakers and talk about their love for Kobe Bryant. It’s another for that player to have a Bryant tattoo on their body.
It certainly sounds like Mamu is aware of the special position he’s in and is ready to make the most of it.
Clearly, Mamu has a ton of love and respect for the Lakers. After all, he signed with them, so obviously it’s where he wants to be. Hopefully, that will translate into production this year. Last season, Mamu averaged a career-best 11.2 points along with 4.9 rebounds per game. He also shot 38.9% from 3-point range.
While playing for the Lakers is a high-pressure environment, and Mamu and other new players like Walker Kessler will certainly feel that, in the end, all fans want is for guys to give their all.
If Mamu is hustling hard and playing with that chip on his shoulder he talked about, he will become a fan favorite. All he has to do now is match his words off the court with his play on it.
You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88 or on Bluesky at @ecreates88.bsky.social.