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Pitted Against LeBron-Backed Team, Pau Gasol Shares All-Star Experience From Ryder Cup
Via Imagn Images

On the hardwood, you will see Pau Gasol and LeBron James in unison when it comes to supporting the Lakers. But away from the court, it becomes an interesting story. We don’t have to remind you what happens when two Purple and Gold superstars are at opposite ends. Cue the Kobe Bryant push to the Spanish icon during the 2008 Olympics. This time, thanks to the Ryder Cup, the allegiance once again is different, but not intense.

Had an amazing morning at the @ryderCup All-Star Match representing #TeamEurope

Even more special teaming up with @catherinezetajones on a Wednesday! Now that’s what I call a funny coincidence!

so much fun!” Part of Team Europe’s All-Star celebrity team, Gasol was paired with Welsh actress Catherine Zeta-Jones for a two-person scramble competition. She recently reprised the character of Morticia Addams in the superhit Netflix fantasy series Wednesday.

Hence the pun from the Spanish icon. The actress joined Team Europe in Bethpage Black’s All-Star showcase ahead of the Ryder Cup. They faced Miranda Lambert and Michael Strahan (USA) but lost 6-5. With 11 total holes at Bethpage Black, with 11 total points available in each match. This result would please LeBron James, who is not swapping his allegiance. “ LIVE FROM THE RYDER CUP


Via Imagn Images

Via Imagn Images

Via Imagn Images

Via Imagn Images

Via Imagn Images

Via Imagn Images

GOOD LUCK ON FRIDAY MEN.”

This was his first message on his Instagram story, which concluded with prayer signs. Naturally, King James is rooting for the Americans. After all, he was the flag bearer at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Sharing another story with his 158 million followers, the 4x NBA champion added a video of the team introductions with another motivating message. “GO TEAM USA“. The support is important, as Team USA will look to avenge the loss from the 2023 event.

Led by Keegan Bradley, Team USA’s roster is not lacking any firepower. World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, U.S. Open champion J.J. Spaun, and Xander Schauffele, among others. Can this team follow the exploits of the All-Star celebrity team? Even though the Team All-Star celebrity Europe team lost, it was time for celebration for Pau Gasol’s partner. Whenever Zeta-Jones was on the tee box, the crowd serenaded her on the eve of her 56th birthday. Her banter with the crowd was also at its peak. “ All I want is for you to clap after my shot. I don’t want even a breath,”

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A post shared by Pau (@paugasol)

The exhibition teed up the 45th Ryder Cup itself, which begins Friday with Europe looking to defend its 2023 title. Speaking about winning, how can we not talk about the Lakers and their chances this season?

Pau Gasol sends a motivational message to LeBron James’ teammate

Winning is paramount when it comes to the Lakers. That’s the reason why they have 17 banners hanging in their rafters, as they are the second-best NBA teams to win that many titles. Hiring JJ Redick last season seems to be in the right direction for the franchise. Confirming themselves as the 3rd best seed in the West, along with notching up 50 wins, which was just the second time in 14 years. How can the team build on it? Pau Gasol has the answer.

Luka is one of the greatest players in the league and a guy that the Lakers definitely gonna build the next 10 years, a franchise around him. You gotta work together, you gotta communicate, you gotta build a real chemistry and you gotta lead your team,” said Gasol. LeBron has been the team’s go-to option since 2018, leading the Lakers to a 2020 NBA championship. But now even the franchise is handing over the reins to Doncic, which Gasol is backing.

Luka made it clear from the start of the offseason: “I don’t want to wait… Let’s do whatever we can now.” This off-season, the Slovenian was instrumental in recruiting Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart. Both even cited Doncic as a factor in their signings. So, it’s clear that the 5x All-Star is not afraid to lead the franchise.

This article first appeared on EssentiallySports and was syndicated with permission.

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